Discover the power in nature
Let your child's learning be wild and free! Learning unfolds beneath the trees, where Wilderwood Forest School nurtures young learners in a truly unique 120 acre site nestled in the heart of the Sussex countryside in East Grinstead.
Forest Life
Little hands discover the world through play, nature, and adventure, with fully immersive, hands-on experiences.
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Fresh air, muddy boots, and joyful exploration support resilient, independent, confident, and happy children who thrive far beyond the forest.
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We bring learning to life in the great outdoors with an experienced and passionate team, driven to give children the best possible start in their early years.
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From muddy boots to magical moments, children create memories that will last a lifetime, giving them the freedom to learn naturally and a childhood they’ll never forget.
Learning through nature
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Immersed in 120 acres of rich, ever-changing landscape — woodland, open spaces, and a babbling brook — children discover the world first-hand, building a deep, tangible connection with the environment around them.
Building confidence and independence
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Real tasks and gently managed risks — from climbing trees to using tools — empower children to trust their own abilities.
Provocations and curiosity
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We offer simple provocations that set the scene for discovery, sparking curiosity through open-ended, natural materials and seasonal wonders.
Following the child
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We observe and respond to their natural interests, letting their own curiosity lead the curriculum and set the pace for discovery.
Relationships at the centre
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Secure attachments with our forest team create the emotional safety children need to feel bold enough to explore.
Creativity everywhere
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Whether building dens, crafting with clay, or making mud pies, imagination and artistic expression are at the heart of our days.
Rhythm and routine
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A predictable daily flow provides comfort and a secure base, allowing children the freedom to lose themselves in play.
Physical fitness
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Children naturally lead active lives in the forest, building strength, coordination and motor skills whilst developing healthy habits that last.
Learning that lasts
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Skills found in the woods — empathy, resilience, independence, self-motivation and self-reliance — are the building blocks that children carry for life.
Working together with families
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We are partners in your children's journey, valuing open communication and a warm, supportive connection with every home.
Our Philosophy
The Heart of Outdoors 247
Chris (Director)
As Director of Outdoors 247, I lead and develop high-quality forest school provision, rooted in years of experience running outdoor nurseries. My work focuses on creating child-led environments where children build confidence, independence, and a real connection to the natural world. I also support schools and settings to develop practical, sustainable outdoor learning in their own spaces.
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Natalie (Director)
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I am a passionate Early Years forest educator who loves making learning fun! I have been working in Early Years for over 20 years gaining qualifications and experience in a variety of outstanding settings including day nurseries, primary school, forest school and volunteering with a riding charity for disabled adults and children. I moved to Forest School learning after realising how beneficial it is for young learners.
I love spending time outdoors with the family whilst walking the dog and can't resist a bit of wildlife spotting on local nature trails! I am passionate about supporting children to love and protect the natural world around them and believe play and exploration amongst the trees makes the best foundation for learning.
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Rosie (Forest Dog and Furry Therapist)
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Rosie has undergone specialist training and successfully achieved therapy dog status. She lovingly makes up part of the wonderful experience children at Wilderwood Forest School Nursery have, whether sitting close by for stories or coming along on walks with us.
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Where You’ll Find Us
We are located in Blackland Farm Outdoor Centre. This wonderful 120 acre site sits within the rolling Sussex countryside at East Grinstead, with a mix of stunning woodland, open grassland and hedgerows. Its history of Girlguiding dates back to 1938, and is a regular destination for schoolchildren, members of Rainbows, Brownies and Guides with Wilderwood Forest School Nursery added later.
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This varied landscape supports a rich mix of broadleaf woodland, flora and wildlife typical of the South East of England including oak and other native trees, seasonal flowers such as bluebells and ground flora as well as a variety of woodland birds, small mammals and insects. This site is where woodland, meadow and countryside ecosystems come together to support diverse plant and wildlife in one of Sussex's stunning natural environments.
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Address:
Blackland Farm Outdoor Centre,
Grinstead Lane, East Grinstead,
RH19 4HP