Parkwood is a great choice of venue for Learning Outside the Classroom, and for those special School Trips. In a safe and secure environment, young people have the opportunity for field studies and experiential learning in the natural outdoor setting of an ancient woodland; there is a large field for games and a Hall for indoor activities and study if the weather is unkind. Parkwood presents a fantastic opportunity for young people to interact and work together away from the distraction of ordinary school life. It can take them out of their comfort zone and encourages both independence (away from parents) and teamwork (communal living and sharing).
The Indoor Accommodation lends itself to groups of various sizes and gender mix, with a large and well-equipped kitchen and Dining Room. The Tidy Cabin serves as a large assembly area or as a Field Classroom – it can be whatever you want it to be! The Langton Chalet can also be used as an additional Field Classroom if needed.
We enjoy regular visits both from a number of local schools and from as far away as Surrey and Hampshire; we even have a group from the Netherlands who come to stay for a week each year. Some schools change classes mid-way through the week, so that more young people can enjoy the experience. The car park can accommodate coaches and staff vehicles.
Sussex Wildlife Trust is less than four miles away at Woods Mill, Shoreham Rd, Henfield BN5 9SD. Click here for the Google Maps route.
The weekly ‘term-time’ rate is very competitive – important now that budgets are so tight. Staff are welcome from Sunday evening (to set things up) and the hire period runs until Friday afternoon.
Useful Links:
10 Reasons to Take Learning Outside the Classroom: http://www.creativeeducation.co.uk/blog/learning-outside-the-classroom/
Council for Learning Outside the Classroom: http://www.lotc.org.uk/
LOtC resource packs: http://www.lotc.org.uk/resources/lotc-resource-packs/