Alternative Education
Our Programmes
Empowering Minds through Nature: Specialised Alternative Provision in Hampshire
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Welcome to the Outdoor Learning Academy, your gateway to transformative outdoor education designed to nurture and inspire students in Dorset and Hampshire. In addition to mainstream pupils who are looking to expand their education within an outdoor learning environment, we work in partnership with local councils and schools to offer bespoke days specifically designed to be of benefit to students with diverse educational needs, particularly those associated with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges. We understand that each child is unique, and our specialised alternative provision is crafted to meet the diverse needs of young minds, fostering growth, resilience, and a love for learning.
Our Aim
Within our educational framework, provision is tailored to respond effectively to identified needs, providing specialised outdoor education to a diverse range of individuals, including young offenders, NEET youth, those with disabilities, individuals in care or at risk of offending, young people not in mainstream education or at risk of exclusion and students facing SEMH challenges and / or learning difficulties.
Our alternative programs are designed not only to deliver academic instruction but also to provide essential complementary support and in some cases qualify students with Laser Learning Awards. The emphasis is on creating a nurturing and therapeutic environment that fosters emotional well-being, enabling students to re-engage positively with their community and school settings.
Interventions are strategically implemented to ensure targeted support, allowing students to develop coping mechanisms, interpersonal skills, and a renewed enthusiasm for learning. The Outdoor Learning Academy aims to recognise and address the specific needs of each learner, with the goal of promoting holistic development and successful integration back into mainstream educational settings.
The profound impact of nature on learning and child development is indisputable. Exposure to natural environments has been linked to enhanced cognitive development, improved attention spans, and increased creativity. Nature serves as a dynamic classroom, stimulating curiosity and fostering a love for exploration. Outdoor activities in natural settings encourage physical activity, contributing to better overall health and well-being. Moreover, nature provides a calming and stress-relieving environment, promoting emotional resilience and reducing anxiety.
Engaging with the outdoors cultivates a sense of environmental responsibility and a connection to the world, nurturing a holistic approach to education that extends beyond the confines of traditional classrooms.
By integrating nature into learning experiences, we not only cultivate well-rounded individuals but also foster a lifelong appreciation for the world around us.
The Benefits of Being in Nature
What to Expect
A brief glimpse onto the diverse array of experiences awaiting students at the Outdoor Learning Academy...
Forest School
We implement Forest School principles, allowing hands-on learning, from building shelters to exploring the wonders of the woods. We recognise the importance of play on students' well-being and physical, social and emotional development. We believe in the power of the great outdoors to nurture every student's strengths and bring lessons to life.
Core Subject Skills
Not all students can learn via textbooks, as a result we dive into all kinds of activities in our dynamic woodland environment, providing sensory-rich experiences that help to improve attention and focus. Lesson plans are designed as engaging outdoor activities that not only bring the fun into learning but also seamlessly integrate core subject knowledge, promoting a multi-sensory learning approach that caters to diverse learning styles.
Bushcraft
Bushcraft isn't just survival skills; it's about getting close to nature, building knowledge to enjoy natural surroundings, understanding the importance of sustainability and having respect for the environment. From mastering fire-making to learning flora in foraging, bushcraft imparts practical skills that foster self-reliance and confidence.
Food Education
Everyday breakfast and/or lunch is cooked upon our open fire with the help of our students. Being able to actively engage in the preparation and cooking processes, students develop practical culinary skills and knowledge. Beyond this it provides room for students to gain insights into nutrition and healthy eating habits, learning about ingredients and nutritional value helps to make more mindful food choices, leading to an overall healthier lifestyle.
Woodworking and Crafting
We work on shaping wood and creating things that not only teaches practical skills but also boosts creativity and problem-solving. We give students the freedom to create anything on their own terms and time. Craft activities fosters respect for tools like knives and axes, instilling responsibility in their craft and usage.
Offsite Adventures
One of the largest benefits of having our beautiful woodlands in the heart of the New Forest is the nearby adventures it presents. Ecological day trips to nearby beaches and rivers guarantee a fun filled day and enhances the educational experience for students. Other activities include geocaching and local orienteering, promoting adventure through problem solving and teamwork.
The Referral Process
Referrals from any registered school or Local Authority are welcome.
Upon receiving a referral, we collaborate closely to create a tailored, child-centered plan addressing the specific needs of the individual. We strongly encourage visits to our site by parents and involved staff, offering the opportunity to meet us, explore our site, and familiarise themselves with our safeguarding procedures. These visits instill confidence in our services and facilitate the development of a robust partnership, working together to achieve the best possible outcomes for the young person.
Our Commitment
At the Outdoor Learning Academy, we are committed to providing specialised alternative provision that empowers children to overcome challenges, build confidence, and discover the joy of learning in nature's classroom. We are dedicated to steering students back onto the right path, ensuring that they are well-equipped for a future filled with opportunities. Contact us today to explore how our outdoor education programs can make a positive impact on the lives of the children in your care. Life's grand adventures in education start here.
Safeguarding & Compliance
Our entire staff is dedicated to guaranteeing the safety and well-being of all our students, undergoing annual approved Level 3 safeguarding training and following rigorous policies and procedures that have been put in place.
If you would like to see any of our Policies and Procedures, please contact us!