Opening near Bude, Cornwall, in September 2026
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Our approach
Our values
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Child-led learning
We follow children’s interests and ideas, giving them time to explore deeply and learn in ways that feel meaningful to them. -
Safe, supported risk
We believe appropriate risky play builds confidence. We offer clear boundaries, careful supervision, and a thoughtful risk–benefit approach so children can challenge themselves safely. -
Nature connection every session
We spend time noticing seasonal changes, learning woodland respect, and building a relationship with the natural world through everyday experiences. -
Real skills in real life
From helping with simple farm routines to foraging, preparing food, and caring for our environment, children learn through doing, and feel proud of what they can manage. -
Warm, inclusive care
We want every child to feel welcomed, understood, and valued. We meet children where they are, support independence gently, and work closely with families. -
Calm routines, unhurried days
We keep sessions predictable and reassuring, with space for children to settle, reset, and enjoy being outdoors at their own pace.
 Children playing in a tree |
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 Toasting marshmallows over the fire |
 A young child exploring a stick |
 Toddlers playing in a stream |
 Excitement about a pine cone |
 Building a fairy house |
 Climbing a tall mud bank |
 Exploring textures |
 He found a hollow tree |
How our day works (8.30-4pm)
At Goaty Orchard Forest School, our days have a reassuring rhythm so children know what to expect, but they’re never rushed. We stay responsive to the children, the weather, and the season, with plenty of time for immersive play and exploration. We’re outdoors-based, with warm indoor spaces available throughout the day for rest, quieter play, warming up, and drying off.
Naps and rest
Because we have a small number of children, we can tailor rest and nap times to each child as an individual, whether that’s a sleep indoors, a cosy rest, or quiet play. Babies and toddlers are supported with their own rhythms, and children can move between outdoor and indoor spaces as needed.
8:30am: Arrival and settling in
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We start with a calm welcome. Some children head straight into play, while others like a slower start; a cuddle, a story or simply observing the world. We keep arrivals gentle and help each child settle in their own way.
Morning: child-led woodland play
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The morning is a long, uninterrupted stretch of self-directed play in our woodland setting. Children might build dens, dig and climb, invent games, follow trails, or explore seasonal wonders like puddles, ice, leaves, feathers, and minibeasts. We set out simple invitations (such as nature craft or small-world play) for children to join if they wish, but the day is led by their interests.
Morning snack
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We pause for a relaxed snack and drink together (provided by us). This is a natural moment to regroup, check in, and notice what the children are focused on, and where their play might take them next.
Farm time and real-life jobs
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Farm life is woven into our days. Children are invited to take an active part in age-appropriate routines, such as helping care for the animals, collecting eggs, carrying feed, or checking gates with an adult. These real responsibilities build empathy, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging within the group
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Lunch
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We provide a healthy lunch. We encourage the children to be involved in preparing lunch, for example gathering ingredients from the vegetable garden, cutting vegetables and adding spices. We usually cook our lunch on the fire.
Afternoon: adventures and the garden
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Afternoons often include longer explorations, creative projects, and shared experiences. Depending on the group and the weather, children might:
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take part in simple, supervised foraging
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help in the vegetable garden: planting, watering, harvesting, and tasting
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make and build with real tools and materials (yes, even little ones can have a turn, with close support)
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We also enjoy marking seasonal changes and festivals, often celebrating with different foods and traditions that feel meaningful for young children.
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4:00pm — Home time
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We finish with a story and a calm handover at pick-up, helping children gather their things and sharing a few highlights from the day.