Welcome to The Paddock
Stable Futures’ Forest Provision – Where Nature is the Teacher
"The best classroom and the richest classroom is roofed only by the sky"
— Marget McMillan
Nestled among ancient trees and lush wild ferns, The Paddock is our hidden gem — a forest-based learning environment that offers something truly special in every season. Whether it’s the crunch of leaves underfoot in autumn or the peaceful calm of winter air, The Paddock provides a sanctuary for children to explore, reflect, and thrive.
Imagine lying back in a tree-hung hammock, listening to birdsong, breathing in the scent of the forest, and finding calm in one of our dedicated regulation and meditation spaces. This is more than an outdoor area — it’s a place to reset, connect, and grow.
Forest School at Stable Futures
Forest School is a child-led, inspirational approach to outdoor learning that supports holistic development through hands-on experiences in nature. Rooted in the Scandinavian ethos of friluftsliv (“open-air life”), Forest School nurtures confidence, creativity, resilience, and self-esteem.
Through regular sessions, learners are encouraged to take supported risks, explore freely, and engage in meaningful play and discovery — building life skills in a natural, therapeutic environment.
A Space for Adventure and Exploration​
Surrounded by extensive forestland, The Paddock is the ideal setting for:
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Woodland adventures
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Hiking and nature walks
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Orienteering and map reading
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Problem-solving and teamwork challenges
Whether climbing, building, or simply watching the clouds drift by, every child finds their own way to grow in this inspiring space.
"The more risks you allow children to take, the better they learn to take care of themselves."
— Roald Dahl
Hands-On Learning in the Wild​
We offer a wide range of outdoor activities that support physical, emotional, and cognitive development. Activities include (but are not limited to):
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Shelter Building
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Natural Navigation
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Foraging & Wild Food Cooking
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Water Purification Challenges
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Archery
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Whittling & Wood Carving
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Bug Hunting and Nature Safaris
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Camouflage & Stealth Games
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Forestry Scavenger Hunts
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Rescue Missions & Stretcher Building
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Sensory Nature Walks
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Nature-Based Art Projects
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Low Rope Course and Zip Line
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Physical Education in the great outdoors
A Place to Grow, Create, and Thrive​
The Paddock isn't just a forest provision — it's an extension of our belief that children learn best when they're supported to explore, take risks, and connect with the world around them. In every leaf, log, and learning moment, we see the potential for transformation.
