The thatched hut, gardens and lawn at The Farmyard on a sunny day

Our centre and outdoor learning

1.7 acres to explore

Our farm-style isn't just the setting for our centre. It's part of the learning.

The Farmyard

Room to explore, move and investigate.

With 1.7 acres of open space, gardens, animals, trees and natural areas, children have room to explore, move, investigate and develop a genuine connection with the natural world.

The outdoor playground at The Farmyard on a sunny day, with an obstacle course of tyres and planks

Everyday life on the farm

Animals, gardens and nature

A child sitting on a bench in the sun, bottle feeding a lamb
1

Caring for animals

Children have regular opportunities to interact with and care for our animals. These experiences encourage responsibility, confidence, empathy and respect for living things.

A child in a raincoat pushing a yellow wheelbarrow along the path
2

Getting involved in gardening

Children get involved in gardening by planting, pulling weeds, watering and caring for our outdoor spaces. We also have fruit trees that children enjoy exploring, gathering fruit from and, when appropriate, tasting.

Children and teachers exploring a bush track on a sunny day
3

Exploring nature

Nature provides endless opportunities for curiosity and discovery. Children can investigate bugs, plants, trees, weather and seasonal changes. Our regular bush walks extend this learning beyond the centre, giving children opportunities to explore, observe, move and discover.

The sunny Panihi garden with a little wishing well, an umbrella and a boardwalk

Looking after our place

Sustainability and caring for our environment

Food scraps from our kitchen are part of our sustainability practices, helping children understand that food waste can have another purpose rather than simply going into the rubbish.

We provide our food scraps to a local pig farmer to reduce waste.

Outdoors every day

Learning through real experiences

Our outdoor environment gives children opportunities to develop independence, problem-solving skills, physical confidence and social skills.

Children climbing the climbing wall under a blue sky
Two children feeding the chickens on the grass
Children in sun hats hammering at the woodwork table with a teacher
They can get muddy, climb, run, build, investigate, care for animals, work alongside friends and discover what they are capable of.

Beyond the gate

More than outdoor play

Our children also enjoy experiences beyond the space.

Spring and summer

Termly swimming

Additional fees charged

Autumn and winter

Gymnastics

Additional fees charged

Children travel by bus to these activities. These experiences help children develop physical confidence, coordination, independence and the ability to participate confidently in new environments.

Book a tour

Come and explore our space

There is so much more to see than we can put into words.