Learning Outside the Classroom

At East Preston Infant School, we believe that learning beyond the classroom is essential for helping children thrive. As proud holders of the Gold LOtC Mark, we provide rich opportunities for pupils to explore, discover, and grow through our Forest School, Beach School, and wider community experiences. These activities are carefully planned to complement classroom learning and support every child’s holistic development.
Confidence and Independence
- Children take on challenges in real-world settings, building self-belief and resilience.
- Activities encourage problem-solving and decision-making, helping pupils develop independence.
Teamwork and Communication
- Group tasks in Forest and Beach School foster collaboration and listening skills.
- Pupils learn to share ideas, negotiate roles, and celebrate achievements together.
Enrichment and Inspiration
- Author visits and theatre workshops bring stories to life.
- Participation in the National Gallery’s Take One Picture project, showcasing our pupils’ artwork in a national exhibition.
- Eco-projects and grounds mornings where families join children to care for our outdoor spaces.
Environmental Awareness
- Hands-on experiences teach respect for nature and sustainability.
- Children learn about ecosystems, wildlife, and how to care for the planet.
Community Connections
- Regular visits to local care homes, helping children develop empathy and communication skills.
- Partnerships with the RNLI, Fire Service, and local businesses for hands-on workshops and safety education.
- Cultural experiences such as Lunar New Year cooking, visits to an Indian restaurant, and virtual synagogue tours.
Global Citizenship
- Activities help pupils understand diversity, inclusion, and their role in the wider world.
- Children learn how their actions can make a positive difference locally and globally.
Personalised Learning
- Learning Outside the Classroom is accessible to all, with tailored support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
- Staff adapt activities to meet individual needs and interests.
Forest and Beach School Adventures
- Weekly sessions in our on-site Forest School, complete with a solar dome for all-weather learning.
- Beach School experiences that teach coastal safety, environmental awareness, and mindfulness through activities like listening to waves and exploring marine habitats.
Cross-Curricular Learning
- Learning Outside the Classroom is fully integrated into the National Curriculum and EYFS framework, with outdoor maths provocations, science investigations, and creative writing inspired by real-world experiences.
- Further activities include cooking pizzas to learn fractions, scavenger hunts for science, and storytelling under the trees.
- Outdoor experiences link to English, Maths, Science, Geography, Art, and PE making learning meaningful and memorable.
- Planned activities reinforce classroom learning and deepen understanding.