The Outdoor Classroom (ODC) is an area of woodland within Queens’ School site which is used for a wide range of learning opportunities. The area is managed by a fully qualified Forest School Leader who is supported by the schools Estates Team and a team of teaching staff. Many of the trees are well established, native broad-leaf trees which have decades of growth; they serve as great structures, with their shapes and shadows creating a sense of wonder for inspired learning. More recently, staff, students and a local scout group have planted well over 200 trees. Some will be used for hedging, but others have been planted in circles, in the hope that one day they will provide some exciting places for students to learn.

The area started to evolve in 2009 after the school was lucky enough to receive some funding for a STEM project. The money allowed us to employ a Green-woodworking specialist who helped students and staff build the shelter which stands to the north of the ODC site. The shelter is used in wet weather so that lessons take place no matter the weather.

Remember, there is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing!

Learning in the ODC comes in many different forms and and the area is continuously being maintained and developed, making it suitable to be used across the curriculum. Many students find the area to be a positive place to learn and appreciate the time they spend in the woods. Another type of lesson is i:WOOD, specifically designed for Y11 PSE and Y7 form groups where there is a strong focus on resilience and independent learning delivered through a holistic style of teaching. Smaller groups of students also get to use this space and sessions are run through-out the year which tackle specific needs of these students. Also, enrichment days have been taking full advantage of this space; students have been able to build dens in the woodland, camp overnight in shelters and explore the delights of preparing food outside and cooking on camp fires.

Students will experience the outdoor classroom in all seasons and no matter the weather. With this in mind, the time outdoors works best when students are suitably dressed. Please make sure your child wears a coat in cold or wet weather. Also, an extra jumper and some thick sock can also make the experience a far more enjoyable one.

The ODC has attracted many outside experts; the list below provides a short summary of the people outside of the school who have supported the work we do. Many of them give their time for free and have been fundamental in making the area a success. The ODC is a very special place to learn and highlights what can be achieved when we work together to make a vision reality. Thanks goes to the following people who have entered in to the spirit of our outdoor space and have gone the extra mile to help students benefit from the great outdoors.