Welcome
Welcome to Willows Outdoor Learning where we strive to embed a free-play approach, that provides children with the space, opportunities and freedom to become independent, creative and curious about their surroundings.
Situated in a beautiful, idyllic site just out of Old Meldrum, we offer a unique outdoor learning experience.
My name is Lisa Knights and I am a qualified primary teacher, nursery nurse and forest schools leader, with deep passion for outdoor learning.
With over 20 years of experience teaching and caring for children, I have built a wealth of knowledge and skills supporting children and their families with a focus on meeting individual needs.
After taking some time away from the classroom to be at home with my three children, I decided to take a big leap and follow my passion by designing and building my very own outdoor learning site.
Willows is designed to ensure all children can thrive through learning and play. Our approach aims to inspire imagination, spark creativity and nurture curiosity.
We hope to see you soon!
Lisa!
What We Offer
Baby/Toddler Groups (0-7 years)
Come along for a fun-filled, play based session where there are a mixture of adult led activities including Forest School crafts, plus lots of free-play opportunities to allow your child’s imagination run wild! We run these sessions on a Monday.
ASN Groups
If your child would prefer a quieter, less structured session then we offer this on a Tuesday morning. Come along and enjoy some free-play, fresh air and fun in a relaxed environment. We run these sessions on a Tuesday.
Homeschool/Flexi-school Groups
Our home-school sessions have opportunities for more focussed learning as well as free choice activities. We focus on team building, games and play, encouraging children to build friendships in a relaxed social environment. We run these sessions on a Friday.
Holiday Sessions
We offer a mixture of sessions over school holidays, some are drop off and some are stay and play/family sessions. We’ll be offering lots of outdoor crafting, using tools, and fire safety as well as lots of play and games! Come and join us have fun in the holidays!
FAQs
What do we do if it rains?
If it rains, we still run our sessions, the children absolutely love playing in the rain, mud and puddles! As long as the children (and adults) wear appropriate clothing and stay warm we venture out in the wet. We do have extra clothing and rainsuits for the children to borrow if necessary.
Do we ever close due to weather?
Yes, in the event of extreme weather, for example extremely high winds or freezing ice, we shall close and you will receive a refund. The safety of our children and families must come first. However, we do try and open throughout the full year in almost all weather conditions. We have indoor shelters and a fire pit to keep warm.
What do I wear?
When you book a session, you will receive a ‘kit list’ with your confirmation email. On there will be recommendations of clothing needed. Please see below;
Spring/Summer recommendations
• Sun hat
• Sun cream
• Long trousers preferably in case of ticks
• Water Bottle
• Rainsuit
• Wellie boots/Trainers (old)
Autumn/Winter recommendations
• Hat, scarf and gloves
• Rainsuit
• Thermals if necessary
• Wellie boots/Outdoor boots
• Warm socks
• Layered clothing
What if I have siblings joining too?
At Willows we are keen to welcome all siblings, the more the merrier! We have a discount for any other children/siblings joining us. You will find this when booking. Also, all children 1 year old and younger can come for free.
Are there toilets?
Yes, we have two sets of camping toilets and sinks all enclosed in cubicles plus a baby changing unit.
How do the children wash their hands?
We have two camping sinks that use a manual water pump. Water is topped up before each session and there is soap and hand sanitizer in each toilet too.
Do you have indoor space available?
Yes, we have multiple wooden huts and shelters with a larger one to gather in, if need be, plus a fire pit.
