Forest and beach school

Two children holding hands outside

At Butterfly Nursery, our Forest and Beach School sessions give children the chance to explore the world around them in a safe, exciting and hands-on way. These weekly adventures are led by trained practitioners who help children learn through nature, curiosity and real experiences. Whether it’s collecting treasures in the woods or listening to the waves on the shore, children build confidence, independence and a deep connection to their environment.

Outdoor learning is an important part of our approach. Through activities such as bug hunting, den building, climbing, balancing, helping with conservation, and learning about tides and weather, children develop physical skills, problem-solving abilities and teamwork. We also teach key life skills in age-appropriate ways — from how to keep themselves safe outdoors to understanding the effects of littering and how to care for nature.

These sessions are designed to be joyful, messy, energetic and memorable. Children return with stories to tell, muddy boots, and huge smiles. We adapt each adventure to suit the weather, tide times and the needs of the children, ensuring every outing is safe, well supervised and meaningful. Above all, our Forest and Beach School gives children the freedom to explore, discover and grow while enjoying the great outdoors.

Some of our outdoor adventures

Child sat on a beach holding a pebble
A child holding a flower
Children playing in a sandpit
A nursery carer pushes a pushchair of kids in a pram outdoors
Two children holding hands outside
A child at the beach smiling
A child at the beach with an adult helping them walk in the sand
A child outside looking at the outside world
An illustration of a cocoon

Cocoons (under 2s)

A warm, calm space for our youngest children, with cosy surroundings, dedicated milk kitchen and a caring 1:3 adult ratio.

Babies enjoy their own garden area and gentle walks in the community.
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Caterpillars (age 2)

Active and curious, our twos explore both indoor and outdoor play, with soft play, garden access, and their own sleep room.

Close to toilets for easy toilet training, with a 1:4 adult ratio.
Illustration of a grasshopper

Grasshoppers (age 3)

Confident and independent, our threes have space to play, learn, and ride bikes in the courtyard, all with supportive 1:6 ratios and free-flow access to the garden.
Illustration of a butterfly

Butterflies (preschool)

Preparing for school with more structure whilst still learning through play.

Using the whole building, garden and courtyard, allowing our pre-schoolers to grow in confidence, skills and independence.

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Designed for every stage

Our nursery offers thoughtfully designed spaces and resources tailored to each child's age and development. From cosy, calming rooms for babies, to active, creative areas for pre-schoolers. Every environment supports growth, discovery and confidence.

Our classes

Explore and grow with Butterfly Nursery

We create an environment where every child can flourish.

Our approach encourages children to explore their creativity, discover their strengths, and grow in confidence.

We tailor learning and care to each child's individual needs, ensuring they feel supported, valued, and inspired every day.

Our nursery

Children playing in a sandpit
      Children playing together with cars

      Our curriculum

      Our curriculum combines the best of both worlds, giving children the comfort of a clear routine and structured activities, while also encouraging them to explore, imagine and learn through nature.

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      Children having a snack together

      Nutrition

      We begin each day with a healthy breakfast of cereal or toast, followed by a morning snack prepared with the children, where we discuss food origins and the advantages of fresh fruits and vegetables.

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      A child on a tricycle

      SEND and inclusion

      At Butterfly Nursery we support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. We have a SEND policy to ensure that all children, regardless of their individual needs, receive the support and care they require to develop to their full potential.

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      Frequently asked questions

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      Forest and Beach School sessions run on a regular basis as part of the nursery experience.
      Sessions are planned around the needs of the children, weather conditions and local environments.

      Yes, safety is always our top priority.
      All sessions are led by trained practitioners, with careful risk assessments and close supervision throughout each outing.

      Children learn through hands-on experiences in nature.
      Activities support physical development, problem solving, teamwork and understanding the natural world.

      Sessions are adapted to suit weather conditions wherever possible.
      If conditions are unsuitable, alternative plans are made to ensure children remain safe and comfortable.

      Parents will be advised on suitable clothing such as waterproofs and wellies.
      Being outdoors means children may get muddy, which is all part of the fun and learning experience.