Seasons of the Land

A Year of Outdoor Discovery and Creative Learning

 

“If children don’t grow up knowing about nature and appreciating it, they will not understand it, and if they don’t understand it, they won’t protect it… if they don’t protect it… who will?”

Sir David Attenborough

 

At a time when climate change, biodiversity loss and an increasing disconnection from the natural world are shaping the lives of young people, it has never been more important to provide children with sustained, meaningful experiences in nature. Outdoor learning is more than an enrichment activity: it is essential for developing environmental understanding, emotional resilience, creativity, confidence and a lifelong sense of stewardship.

Research consistently shows that regular time outdoors improves mental health and wellbeing, increases focus and problem-solving, and nurtures a deeper connection to the environment – benefits that are particularly critical for children growing up in rural deprivation and in urban communities with reduced access to natural spaces.

‘Seasons of the Land’ builds on the success of HGF previous Earth Education Days, expanding them into a year-long, immersive programme that supports children to develop a living relationship with the land. Across four seasonal workshops, pupils will explore the 170 acres of Hellens Manor – observing how the landscape changes, learning how human activity impacts nature, and discovering practical and creative ways to care for the world around them.

This deep, repeated engagement allows children to not only visit nature but to begin to belong to it – forming strong sensory, emotional and ecological connections that can guide them throughout their lives.

We are welcoming Riverside School for four seasonal workshops across the year, made possible by funding from The Brailsford Trust – launching a rich journey of outdoor discovery and creative learning. Set within the 170 acres of Hellens Manor, the children will return each season to observe the changing landscape, explore our impact on nature, and discover ways to care for the world around them. With each visit, they begin not just to visit nature – but to feel a sense of belonging within it.

SPRING –

It was a beautiful start. The children were incredible – walking miles, embracing the wild winds, and fully entering into the day.

We were joined by the amazing storyteller Pyn Stockman, who brought tales of dancing trees and magical fortunes to life. We created a wheel of the year among the standing stones, lunched with wild daffodils and ancient oaks, and made our own journals.

SUMMER –

We had great fun playing the sundial game around the beautiful Golden Valley Sundial installation, created by Grace & Chris in collaboration with Meadow Arts. We then ventured further into the landscape to meet Tim Kaye at the regeneration site, where the children enjoyed an exciting exploration of plants, insects and the rich biodiversity of the area.

In the afternoon, the children worked together to map the land they have explored so far at Hellens, using natural materials gathered from the site. We were incredibly impressed by their imagination, creativity and thoughtful mapping skills.

A huge thank you to the children and teachers from Riverside Primary, who have been such a joy to play, explore and learn alongside. We look forward to welcoming them back in the autumn to discover how the land has changed once again.