A natural environment for growth
About Us
Tailored Learning, Rooted in EYFS
Our educational approach follows the EYFS framework while allowing flexibility for child-led discovery. Each session is designed to meet the individual developmental needs of the children attending.
Children are encouraged to explore at their own pace, engage with open-ended resources, and express themselves freely. We observe their interests and adapt our planning to support meaningful learning in the moment.
Whether it’s early maths through stick counting, literacy through storytelling around the fire circle, or science through seasonal nature walks, children build core skills in a setting that’s grounded in curiosity and joy.
A Natural Environment for Growth
Willow Woods provides a calm, inspiring space where children can learn through hands-on exploration in nature. Our woodland setting encourages freedom of movement, curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity in a way that traditional classrooms often can’t.
Forest School supports holistic development — fostering emotional resilience, physical confidence, independence, and social skills through carefully planned activities and real-world challenges.
Experienced, Qualified & First Aid Trained Staff
Willow Woods is led by Mandy, a fully qualified Forest School Leader & Early Years teacher with a passion for outdoor learning. She is supported by a small, passionate team of early years professionals, all of whom are:
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Trained in paediatric first aid
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Experienced in supporting a range of developmental and educational needs
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Committed to safeguarding and inclusive practice
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Warm, Nurturing and welcoming
Why Willow Woods?
Animal Care & Responsibility
Animal care forms part of our weekly routine, teaching children about empathy, responsibility, and gentle interaction. These experiences build emotional intelligence and give children a sense of routine, ownership, and pride.
Forest School supports holistic development
Fostering emotional resilience, physical confidence, independence, and social skills through carefully planned activities and real-world challenges.
Freedom To Express
At Willow Woods, we believe children thrive when they are allowed to be curious, make mistakes, solve problems, and connect with the world around them.
Ofsted Registered & Safeguarding-Focused
We are fully Ofsted registered, and operate with clear safeguarding procedures and high standards of care. Our policies and practices ensure that all children are safe, seen, and supported at every stage of their journey with us.
Tailored Learning
Whether it’s early maths through stick counting, literacy through storytelling around the fire circle, or science through seasonal nature walks, children build core skills in a setting that’s grounded in curiosity and joy.
SESSIONS
FOREST SCHOOL DAY CARE
Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 9AM TIL 3PM
We are open 47 weeks per year for flexible day care sessions.
OUR FOREST SCHOOL OFFERS A LEARNING ENVIROMENT WHICH IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING for children, incorporating nature-based play, animal care, crafts, tool use, team games, and exploration. OUR FUNDING WORKS ALONGSIDE OTHER SETTINGS TO COMPLIMENT AN HOLLISTIC APPROACH.
ALTERNATE PROVISIONS
Wednesday/Friday PM
Willow Woods provides a calm and therapeutic environment for children who require an alternative to mainstream classroom education. This may include children with additional needs, school anxiety, or those currently out of school placements.
Flexible sessions can be arranged.
STAY AND PLAY
Friday AM 9.30 - 11.30
A relaxed session open to parents and carers with younger children, offering shared time in the woods with access to nature-based activities, play areas, and animal care. A great introduction to the Forest School environment. 9-12