The Forest School Project led by Groundwork North East started in November 2014 and will run until the end of January.

Each week pupils from Aycliffe School have accessed the programme in the grounds of the North East Centre for Autism. The project focuses on exploring, experiencing and learning about nature within the “great outdoors”. The strap line for Groundwork is “Changing Places, Changing Lives”. This aim has been certainly outworked through the medium of engaging activities for the pupils, differentiated challenges given according to ability and inclination. These activities have created new learning opportunities in unique and special locations.

Activities have included finding colours in nature, locating a variety of leaves, berries and plants, creating art pieces through natural media, and building shelters and fires! The learning activities have been multi-sensory, which have resulted in some fantastic outcomes. Using the medium of nature has contributed to an enhanced learning journey for each and every one of the pupils.




It has been through the Forest School Project that our pupils have enjoyed the great outdoors, as well as experiencing learning within new environments. In addition, there has been an emphasis on conservation and looking after the natural world around us.

The project has brought pupils together from different classes, who would not usually learn together. They have responded well to this new opportunity, “travelling together” on this special journey and exploring new experiences.