We all remember the feeling of freedom, learning how to assess the risks of climbing that tree or jumping off that wall, and learning through the world around us.

These memories are some of the most precious you can make as a child, and all you need is nature.

That’s why at Chapter One we’re so dedicated to the ethos of outdoor learning.

Our nursery, based in Farnley North Yorkshire, is a short drive from Harrogate, Leeds and Otley, yet far enough for us to benefit from all the elements of the countryside.

Surrounded by farm animals in the neighbouring fields, pheasants wander the grounds and there is masses of space outdoors for the children to play in their age appropriate playgrounds (3 different areas). As well as the addition of our very special woodland area where we offer an outdoor nursery, Chapter One Treetops.

 

Chapter One Treetops outdoor nursery allows for learning through nature and gives children the opportunity to build fond memories and a warm and trusting connection to the earth and understanding the care needed for our wildlife.

You may have heard about outdoor learning and forest schooling before as the approach is not new as such. It was developed in Sweden in the 1950s and is becoming more popular in the UK in recent years and in particular, with recent events we all know this is the healthiest environment for us to thrive not only physically but for our wellbeing.

The outdoor learning approach is used to develop children’s sense of independence, through ‘risky play’, which in turn impacts their intellectual, cognitive, physical and emotional development. And all the while the children are enjoying themselves, enjoying nature and building memories.

To get an idea of what the children get up to at Treetops, take a look at our ‘Day in The Life’ blog which takes you through a typical day with us. From building outdoor dens using real tools to toasting marshmallows on the campfire, all under the supervision of our qualified staff who understand how to cover all areas of the curriculum. Anything taught indoors can be taught outdoors as not all classrooms have walls.

You may think that outdoor learning sounds great for summer months but not for rainy miserable winter days, but as long as the children are kitted out with their Treetops all-weather kits, they enjoy it all year round and benefit from the ever-changing scenery. They experience the blue carpet as the bluebells arrive, to the flourishing roof of the trees and blue ceiling, to the many colours that autumn brings to the frosty white ground that sparkles and gives delight and a magical scene.

We can not forget the rain, to us as adults we rush through it whilst children dance in the rain, splash and make amazing mud pies…. what fun!

The added benefit of our outdoors is that it is only stone’s throw away we have our large indoor facility and this gives a variety of learning as we offer split placements, meaning a child can, for example attend both settings.

The indoor nursery also works with the ethos of nature using many natural materials and have their own adjoining gardens and playground which houses a wonderful caravan den, giant sand area, planting and growing, tricycle tracks and art stations for those budding artists.

Our staff have a true passion for the work they do and many have been with us for 15 years plus, in this knowledge, there is continuous personal development with our training plans which enables them to give the best opportunities to your children.

We would welcome you to come and see us so we can show you all the lovely experiences we offer and to meet our team and parents who can tell you their experiences.

To find out more or to book a visit, please call 01943 461161 or visit our website.

*This is a Sponsored Blog for Chapter One Childcare