Outdoor Learning is a cornerstone of our broad and balanced curriculum at Silverwood School. We believe in nurturing pupils’ curiosity and confidence by encouraging them to engage with the natural world and learn to manage risks in a safe, supportive environment.
Through Outdoor Learning, pupils develop key personal and social skills including tolerance, respect for others and the environment, self-esteem, and our core school values.
Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC)
Outdoor Learning is embedded across the curriculum and delivered through a wide range of LOtC activities. At our Rowde campus, pupils in Key Stage 3 follow the Tree Awards programme, which includes bushcraft, gardening, and caring for farm animals.
All pupils across Silverwood School access at least one outdoor learning session per week. Our EYFS, Primary, and KS3 pupils follow the Silverwood Outdoor Learning Awards (SOLA), which promote personal development and school values through hands-on experiences in our outdoor environments.
Qualifications and Enrichment
In Key Stage 4, pupils can pursue the WJEC Preparing for Work qualification in Land-Based Studies, covering Horticulture and Animal Care. Pupils also have the opportunity to complete the Duke of Edinburgh Award, which includes volunteering in woodland management, developing expedition skills, and completing their expedition section.
Our Outdoor Learning Environments
We are proud to offer diverse and inspiring outdoor spaces across our campuses:
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Rowde Campus: 20 acres of woodlands, a Victorian walled garden, farm animal area, and a purpose-built Outdoor Learning Centre.
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Chippenham Campus: Sensory garden, poly tunnel for year-round gardening, group spaces for outdoor sessions, and a mud kitchen and messy play area.
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Trowbridge Campus: Sensory garden, growing space, and access to a shared forest school area with Paxcroft Primary, featuring a large accessible tent and mud kitchen.
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Chippenham College Site: Sensory garden with water feature, poly tunnel, and an outdoor café area run by pupils.
Beyond the School Grounds
Outdoor Learning at Silverwood extends into the wider community. Pupils take part in local visits that help them build essential life skills and find their place in the world.
