Nature Explorers

Forest School is a recognised model of early learning that:

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• Provides regular access to local woodlands and greenspaces

• Promotes outdoor, child-led play and exploration

• Links directly to the Curriculum for Excellence, and Realising the Ambition

• Encourages resilience, confidence, and wellbeing through hands-on experiences in nature

Nature-based play supports children’s physical, emotional, and social development. Key benefits include:

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• Daily access to fresh air and physical activity

• Support for emotional wellbeing and stress regulation

• Opportunities to develop imagination, problem-solving, and risk assessment skills

• Freedom to explore and learn through the senses

• Encouragement to make decisions, follow interests, and build independence

Each of our nurseries is located near outstanding natural spaces, allowing children to access outdoor learning safely and regularly:

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Cramond House
Located near both woodland and beach, with sessions typically based in the forest. Children may also explore the beach or even venture to Cramond Island when appropriate.

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Craiglockhart
Sessions take place in Craiglockhart Nature Park, a short walk from the nursery. The park offers diverse environments including a pond, hilltop views, and canal paths for discovery and adventure.

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Kilmaurs
Nature Explorers are based in the woodlands of Prestonfield House, just ten minutes away. Children enjoy a variety of experiences, from visiting nearby Highland cows to walking routes towards Arthur’s Seat.

Nature Explorer sessions focus on child-led learning with a balance of freedom and gentle guidance. Each day includes:

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• Opportunities to explore the environment at the child’s pace

• Open-ended questions to promote thinking and curiosity

• Weekly topics such as local wildlife, plants, and seasonal changes

 

Children have access to natural and open-ended resources including ropes, hammocks, and tarpaulins. While play is unstructured, educators extend learning based on children's interests and emerging topics.

Children are encouraged to develop respect for nature and learn sustainable practices. Key messages include:

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• Respecting wildlife and natural habitats

• Leaving natural resources undisturbed where possible

• Disposing of litter responsibly

• Leaving the forest as they found it

 

We regularly assess the environmental impact of our sessions and move base locations as needed to protect natural areas.

Nature Explorers is aligned with national and local early years guidance, including:

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• Curriculum for Excellence

• Realising the Ambition

• Getting It Right for Every Child (GIRFEC)

• My World Outdoors

• Out to Play

• Learning for Sustainability

• Loose Parts Play

• The Early Years Framework

• Scottish Outdoor Access Code