Rose Hill
School
School
Compass Curriculum
Outdoor Learning
Learning that happens in the real world
Your child learns about the world at Rose Hill School, but importantly, they learn in the real world too.
Across our 16-acre campus, outdoor learning is embedded into everyday school life, from Nursery to Year 8. Children explore, investigate and problem-solve in nature-rich spaces that inspire focus, independence and joy.
Awe, wonder & real discovery
Our woodland areas give children the space to climb, dig, build, imagine and test new ideas safely.
From early mark-making in mud to collaborative den-building, forest school sessions help pupils develop resilience, teamwork and confidence.
What your child experiences
Creative, sensory exploration
Risk-taking in a safe, structured way
Team challenges and problem-solving
Growing independence
A natural grounding for emotional wellbeing
Outdoor learning woven through the curriculum
Outdoor learning is woven into the fabric of learning at Rose Hill School, with plenty of opportunities for our pupils to experience the benefits of learning in the natural world.
We carry out many projects, focus days and thematic units outdoors so pupils can apply their knowledge in real contexts. Whether they are studying habitats in science, mapping in geography or storytelling in English, the outdoor environment becomes their living classroom.
How this supports learning:
Stronger retention through hands-on experiences
Natural curiosity leading to deeper understanding
Improved communication and collaboration
Greater confidence to ask questions and explore
From Nursery to Year 8
How Compass grows with your child
Ages 3-4
Nursery
Awe, wonder & first adventures
In Nursery, the outdoors becomes an extension of your child’s world.
Here, early learning is hands-on, sensory and joyfully messy. We provide an environment where curiosity grows naturally and confidence flourishes.
Sensory exploration and open-ended nature play
Early mark-making with natural materials
Storytime outdoors to develop early language
Movement and balance activities to build strength
Safe risk-taking to nurture resilience and independence
Outdoor learning also plays a central role in Rosebuds, where woodland sessions help little ones settle comfortably into school life.
Ages 4+
PrePrep
Curiosity comes to life
In PrePrep (Reception to Year 2), outdoor learning deepens children’s understanding of the world around them. We regularly host lessons outside, allowing children to apply concepts practically and collaboratively.
Exploring habitats, seasons and weather
Simple investigations that ignite enquiry skills
Using outdoor spaces to enhance reading, phonics and maths skills
Team challenges that build communication and problem-solving
Nature-based calm spaces that support emotional wellbeing
Through outdoor learning, your child will begin building the foundations of the Compass Curriculum skill strands – curiosity, adventure and philanthropy – through real experiences.
Ages 7+
Prep School
Applying knowledge in the real world
In Prep (Years 3-8), outdoor learning becomes more structured, purposeful and closely aligned to our Compass Curriculum. Children connect classroom learning with practical experience, strengthening their independence and leadership.
Fieldwork in science and geography
Adventure-led challenges that build teamwork and confidence
Project-based outdoor investigations
Enterprise activities that promote creative problem-solving
Philanthropy projects that develop empathy and community awareness
These experiences support the 5 keys to success & happiness – confidence, organisation, perseverance, resilience and getting along – that we embed across Prep and Senior Prep.
By Year 7 and 8, pupils use the outdoor environment for research, leadership roles and skills development that prepares them for senior school and the world beyond Rose Hill School.
Space to move, think and thrive
Beyond structured lessons, children benefit from:
Outdoor play areas designed to build strength and balance (early years)
Games, sport and movement woven throughout the week
Nature-inspired calm spaces that promote emotional wellbeing
Active learning keeps children motivated, grounded and ready to take on new challenges.
A place to build confidence
Being outdoors gives children opportunities to take safe risks, solve problems and make independent choices, which are all essential for developing self-esteem. Pupils learn how to assess situations, collaborate and persevere, which helps to create well-rounded individuals.
Experience our outdoor learning first-hand
Experience the impact of our outdoor learning by booking a visit and seeing your child in this environment.