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Set within 25 acres of beautiful Surrey countryside, Hazelwood School is perfectly placed to bring learning to life beyond the classroom. We believe that outdoor learning is not just a supplement to education—it is an essential part of it.
Every child is encouraged to explore, discover, and grow in an environment that inspires both body and mind.
Our Outdoor Learning Approach
At Hazelwood, outdoor learning is woven into the very ethos of the school and ties in firmly with the importance we place on wellbeing within our community. We firmly believe that the natural environment offers an ever-changing classroom where curiosity thrives.
Stepping outside of the indoor classroom brings a different kind of learning to life - one that engages the senses, encourages movement and nurtures creativity.
Our outdoor learning approach offers children the chance to explore and investigate, offering a vital break from screens and desks, in which they're able to refresh and recharge.
From woodland adventures, energetic games of tag to quiet moments of reflection, our approach blends adventurous play with structured learning in nature.
We never miss an opportunity to be outside when the weather allows us to be.
Benefits of Outdoor Learning
By immersing pupils in outdoor learning experiences, we aim to foster a deeper connection with the natural world.
Whether exploring woodland trails, conducting science experiments in the open air or engaging in team-building challenges, pupils gain hands-on experiences that enhance their academic understanding and personal growth.
Outdoor learning encourages resilience, creativity and collaboration - skills that are essential for lifelong success.
Our Outdoor Learning Environment
Our extensive grounds feature diverse, purpose-built outdoor learning spaces.
Our Forest School site is nestled within spacious woodlands and our outdoor learning zone features a treehouse classroom, 7 pods for breakout sessions and a firepit by the giant teepee, which is perfect for a lively debate!
Lower School pupils enjoy playing in the sand pit, adventure playground and on tricycles during playtime.
Our sports facilities are exceptional, featuring an all-weather Astro pitch, multiple courts, cricket nets, and the expansive New Field where we host fixtures. In addition, we offer a climbing wall, a table tennis area, and a variety of inviting spaces where our older pupils can relax and socialise.
Outdoor Learning Integrated into the Curriculum
Outdoor learning is seamlessly embedded across our academic and creative curriculum.
Forest School is part of the regular timetable from Reception to Year 4. Pupils explore topics such as migrating birds, how to design strong and stable structures, and, importantly, they engage physically while learning how to interact with and appreciate the natural environment.
Hands-on investigations in maths, science, art and storytelling frequently take place in the woodland or treehouse settings. For example:
Year 7 Maths lesson - investigating theoretical probability and relative frequency by rolling giant dice in the courtyard.
Year 4 History lesson - shaping Roman pottery outside on the Baily Terrace.
Year 2 recently observed our Estates Team planting a new hedge where they learnt about mulching, bark protection and planting saplings - which they will enjoy watching grow during their time at Hazelwood.
Year 1 nature hunt - discovering treasures and making observational drawings of plants.
Year 3 Art - sketching the old building from the grassy bank for their History of Hazelwood topic.
Our nursery children enjoy water play, planting flowers, nature walks, and playing in the mud kitchen in their expansive outdoor space.
This real-world integration enriches core subjects and encourages pupils to ‘Think, Explore, Discover’ in settings that bring lessons to life
Outdoor learning is not just about fresh air and muddy boots—it’s about nurturing confident, curious learners who aren’t afraid to ask questions, take risks, and discover their place in the world
Lindie Louw
Head of Hazelwood