Schools and Education
Our Approach
We operate with the belief that outdoor education promotes holistic development. Our programs are tailored to meet the diverse needs of young people, offering them the chance to grow physically, emotionally, and socially.
We emphasize:
• Active Learning: Encouraging children to engage physically with their environment through games, exploration, and creative tasks.
• Emotional Well-being: Providing a space for children to unwind, reflect, and express themselves freely in a non-judgmental, supportive setting.
• Connection to Nature: Teaching the importance of sustainability and instilling a deep appreciation for the natural world in every child.
Introduction
Northern Wildlings offers a unique blend of outdoor activities designed to enrich the educational experience of young people. As experts in alternative education in the UK, we understand the importance of engaging students in hands-on learning. Our programs are tailored to teach physics, chemistry, plant biology, biodiversity, and ecology. We also have a special focus on SEND students as well as mainstream classes.
Our founder Damian Grimley is Autistic and ADHD, which we feel is a good role model to students with these kinds of Neurotype, demonstrating that there are ways for building success using the positives associated with these Brain types.
Educational value to support classroom learning
We can include through our lessons, key stage values, which match the subjects included in the national curriculum. Such as Stone age to Iron age period using practical activities which bring the Stone age alive. The Chemistry of fire which introduces chemistry and physics through active outdoor lessons, this covers states of matter as well as basic chemistry, using exciting and engaging practical lessons and demonstrations. Plant biology, our lessons on the symbiosis of trees and Fungi, mycelial networks, and the history and biological function of trees. Classic physics the physics of pulleys and levers and introducing forces, using the climbing wall, ropes and pulleys in a fun and practical session.
We can consult with teaching staff to include any required learning in our outdoor activities.
Living History
Bring History to life at your school! We can bring the Jorvik experience to your school playing fields or sports hall. Our Stone age and Viking History experience’s bring; artifacts, real Vikings, and Norse games and activities to you. We create an active and engaging environment that helps children of all abilities to engage in this fascinating subject.
It was honestly such a good day! The children loved it and one of my class went home that night and did her own research about the influence the Vikings had on today's society! And two children have made their own hnefatalf game to play in the classroom! It was lovely for some of our children who struggle with the more academic subjects to be successful in the archery and the axe throwing as well as for all children to learn in a memorable way.
The teachers from the afternoon session said that the children were really engaged with the outdoor learning and have talked about it all week!
Victoria Wales - Hurdsfield Primary School
Stone Age History
This immersive experience will show students how our ancestors lived showing them aspects of Hunter Gatherer lifestyle, Flint knapping, showing wild plants that were used as medicine and food.
We include a workshop on stone age art and crafts and fire lighting techniques used by the ancestors.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing using our mobile climbing wall is not only an exhilarating physical activity but also offers numerous mental health benefits. It helps build physical strength, endurance, and flexibility, promoting overall fitness. The mental benefits include increased self-esteem, stress reduction, and improved focus. Moreover, rock climbing fosters teamwork and communication skills. As students support each other and communicate effectively to navigate the climbing routes, they learn the importance of cooperation and mutual respect.
Archery
Archery is a sport that combines physical skill with mental discipline. It enhances hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, crucial for physical development. The mental benefits are equally significant; archery teaches patience, concentration, and self-discipline. It is a meditative practice that helps students manage stress and improve mental clarity. As they aim and shoot, they learn to control their emotions and stay focused on their goals.
Bushcraft
Bushcraft education encompasses the priorities of survival, teaching students about thermal properties and the science behind effective outdoor shelters. This includes understanding convection, insulation, and identifying weather patterns. Fire lighting activities explore states of matter, chemical reactions, and the physics of fire. Water sourcing and filtration lessons delve into ecology, the water cycle, and the chemistry of carbon as a filter. These activities not only provide practical survival skills but also deepen scientific knowledge.
Our Approach
At Northern Wildlings, we operate with the belief that outdoor education promotes holistic development. Our programs are designed to meet the diverse needs of young people, offering them opportunities to grow physically, emotionally, and socially. By engaging in outdoor activities, students gain a deeper appreciation for nature and develop essential life skills.
Kindness
We teach kindness by encouraging students to support and help each other during activities. Whether it's aiding someone on the climbing wall or working together with support during bushcraft sessions, kindness is a core value that fosters a positive and inclusive environment.
Respect
Respect is taught through our lessons by emphasizing the importance of respecting nature, peers, and oneself. Students learn to appreciate the natural world and the diverse perspectives of their classmates. This respect extends to the environment, promoting sustainable practices and ecological awareness.
Teamwork
Teamwork is integral to our activities. From coordinating efforts in archery to collaborating on survival tasks in bushcraft, students learn the power of working together. Teamwork enhances communication skills, builds trust, and fosters a sense of community.
Conclusion
Northern Wildlings offers a comprehensive outdoor education program that enriches the educational experience of young people. Our activities teach valuable scientific concepts, promote physical and mental well-being, and foster essential life skills. We invite you to join us in this journey of holistic development, where kindness, respect, and teamwork are the pillars of our approach.
We bring fun and excitement to the educational experience especially engaging young people who find classroom learning difficult.