Here at Outdoor Learning Resources, we noticed that parents and carers were often searching for outdoor and nature-based options for their children, but didn't always know how to find them.

Our directory map brings together forest schools, outdoor nurseries and forest kindergartens, outdoor playgroups, home education groups and holiday clubs across the UK.

Enter your location in the search box to see what's available near you.

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    Not sure which type of setting is right for your child? Read on for a quick guide to each one, plus answers to the questions parents ask us most.

    Outdoor nurseries and forest kindergartens

    An outdoor nursery is early years childcare where children spend most of their day outside, whatever the weather. You may also see them called forest nurseries, forest school nurseries, nature kindergartens or forest kindergartens.

    Most outdoor nurseries care for children from around age 2 until they start school, though some take babies. Children play, explore and learn in woodland, fields or large natural gardens, usually with a simple shelter or indoor base for meals, naps and the very worst weather.

    Like any nursery, outdoor nurseries in England caring for under-5s are registered with Ofsted, and many accept government-funded childcare hours. It's always worth checking with the setting directly.

    To find a forest nursery near you, search your area on the map above.

     Forest schools

    Forest school is a child-led way of learning outdoors, through regular sessions in woodland or another natural space. Children build dens, climb trees, light fires, use tools and explore at their own pace, with support from a trained Forest School leader.

    The approach began in Scandinavia and has grown across the UK since the 1990s. We've been part of the Forest School world since its early days in Wales, so it's an approach very close to our hearts.

    Many forest schools in the UK run sessions for school-age children after school, at weekends or during term time. Some schools also run forest school as part of the school day.

    Running forest school sessions yourself? Take a look at our forest school equipment.

    Outdoor playgroups and toddler groups

    Outdoor playgroups are relaxed sessions for babies, toddlers and preschoolers, usually with a parent or carer staying alongside. They're a lovely first step into outdoor play, and a good way to meet other families.

    Sessions often include songs, stories, mud play, nature crafts and plenty of time to simply explore. Some are run as forest school toddler groups by a trained leader, others by parents or local community groups. Most run weekly, and many let you drop in or book a single session to try it out.

     Home education groups

    Outdoor home education groups bring home-educating families together for daytime sessions in nature. They're often mixed-age, so siblings can usually come along together.

    Many are run as home ed forest school sessions, with activities like shelter building, tool use, fire lighting and wildlife spotting. As well as the outdoor learning, they're a great way for home-educated children to make friends and build a regular social circle, which many home-educating parents value just as much.

    Some groups are led by a trained practitioner and charge per session, while others are run by parents themselves.

    Outdoor holiday clubs and adventure camps

    Outdoor holiday clubs give children a chance to spend the school holidays in the fresh air rather than in front of a screen. Expect den building, campfire cooking, nature games, crafts and plenty of mud.

    Most are day camps for primary school-age children, running during the summer holidays and often at Easter and half term too. Many are run by forest school leaders, and places can fill quickly, so it's worth booking early.

    Frequently asked questions

    What is forest school?

    Forest school is a child-led approach to outdoor learning. Children take part in regular sessions in woodland or another natural space, where they play, explore and learn practical skills like den building and tool use. Sessions are run by trained Forest School leaders, and the focus is on building confidence, independence and a lasting love of nature.

    What's the difference between a forest school and an outdoor nursery?

    Forest school is a way of learning, usually delivered in regular sessions of a few hours. An outdoor nursery is full early years childcare where children spend most of the day outside. Many outdoor nurseries use the forest school approach, so the two often overlap. Which suits your family depends on your child's age and the childcare you need.

    What age can children go to forest school?

    There's no fixed age. Outdoor playgroups welcome babies and toddlers with a parent or carer, outdoor nurseries usually start from around age 2, and forest school sessions and holiday clubs are mostly aimed at primary school-age children. Some groups also run sessions for teenagers and adults.

    Do forest schools and outdoor nurseries need to be Ofsted registered?

    In England, outdoor nurseries caring for under-5s must be registered with Ofsted, just like any other nursery. Shorter sessions and activity clubs, including many forest school sessions, don't always need to register. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own regulators. If registration matters to you, for example to use funded childcare hours, ask the setting directly.

    Is forest school expensive?

    Costs vary widely. Outdoor nursery fees are generally in line with other nurseries in the area, and many registered settings accept funded childcare hours. Forest school sessions, playgroups and holiday clubs are usually priced per session or per day. Small group sizes, trained leaders and outdoor sites all add to the cost of running them.

    What should children wear to forest school?

    Layers are key, as children are outside in all weathers. A waterproof all-in-one or jacket and trousers, wellies or waterproof boots, and long sleeves and trousers (to protect against scratches, nettles and ticks) are a good start. Add a warm hat and gloves in winter, and a sun hat and sun cream in summer. Most settings will send you their own kit list.

    What is a home ed group?

    A home ed group is a regular meet-up for families who home educate their children. Groups might focus on outdoor learning, a particular subject, or simply socialising. Outdoor home education groups are a popular way for children to learn in nature and make friends at the same time.