The Outdoors Group

The Outdoors Group: outdoor education and forest school in Devon

The Outdoors Group is a British outdoor education company that presents itself as a specialist in forest school, alternative education and adult training. It operates across nearly a dozen sites in Devon and describes itself as an innovative company committed to making the natural environment accessible to young people of any background or previous experience. Its approach, which the organisation itself describes as Scandinavian-inspired, combines woodland practice with holistic support that prioritises social and emotional wellbeing before traditional measures of success.

Forest school for all ages

Forest school activities take place at the Exmouth, Escot (near Exeter), Okehampton and Totnes sites. The offer includes clubs for toddlers and their families, home education groups, school holiday clubs and outdoor birthday parties for children of all ages. The company states that its forest school sessions are aimed at both the general public and children who find the conventional educational environment difficult.

Alternative provision and support for neurodiverse learners

The group offers outdoor learning intervention for students who do not adapt to mainstream education, as well as a specialist home education group for neurodiverse children. It also has a consultancy service for families, teachers and other professionals working with autistic children or children with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. The testimonials on its website, from schools such as Exminster School, Blundell's Prep School, St James School in Exeter and Littleham Primary School, highlight the development of social and emotional skills, tolerance and resilience in participating pupils, as well as the connection with the natural environment and links to subjects such as science, maths and creative writing.

Training for professionals and adults

The education and training area includes ITC Level 2 and Level 3 Forest School Leader training courses, as well as Paediatric & Forest School First Aid and Paediatric & Outdoor First Aid training, both at ITC Level 3. These are complemented by continuing professional development (CPD) workshops, such as storytelling and games and activities, and team building days for companies and organisations. The company notes that these programmes allow participants to develop a career in outdoor education or to add an outdoor element to their existing professional activity.

Outreach in schools and the community

The outreach service brings forest school to schools and community groups. Sessions are delivered by qualified practitioners and take place immersed in the woodland environment, with the aim of facilitating learning, development, play, connection and wellbeing for participants.

Track record and environmental commitment

The organisation dates its official beginnings to 2011 and, on the occasion of its tenth anniversary, produced a visual record of the decade. Over that period it has provided alternative provision to children who find the conventional school environment difficult. The company declares a strong ethical commitment to environmental protection which, according to its presentation, permeates all its activity. In terms of health and safety at work, it has obtained ISO 45001 certification, the internationally recognised standard in this field.

Location and contact

Western Lodge, Crediton, Devon, EX17 3NH