REWILD
WOODLAND SCHOOL
Let Nature Be Their Classroom.
Rewild Woodland School offers an alternative education
where children learn from nature, not textbooks.
Rewild isn’t just a place to learn;
it’s a place to live deeply in connection with the land.
“Project Rewild are amazing at what they do,
MY KIDS ARE LOVING CONNECTING WITH NATURE AND FEELING PART OF A TRIBE.
THERE ARE SO MANY “FOREST SCHOOLS” OUT THERE,
BUT THIS IS SO MUCH MORE
ITS ABOUT GENUINLY CONNECTING WITH THe EARTH AND WITH OTHERS.
WE ARE SO LUCKY THAT WE DISCOVERED
REWILDING”
- Woodland School Parent 2021.
REWILD Woodland School
We are nature—but in today’s world, this vital connection is being lost.
Rewild Woodland School gives children the space to rediscover their wildness: to run free, explore, and embrace who they truly are.
Since 2018, our woodland school (formerly Free to Learn) has offered a child-led, hands-on alternative to traditional education. Rooted in the rhythms of nature, we inspire curiosity, creativity, and independence, helping children grow into resilient, confident individuals. Now in our seventh year, we continue to nurture the bond between children and the earth that sustains us all.
“Teaching Children about the natural world should be treated as one of the most important events in their lives.”
— Thomas Berry
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who are we?
A woodland school for children aged 7–16, to be fully immersed in nature throughout the year, whatever the weather. Children are dropped off and cared for by our qualified and experienced staff, who provide a safe and nurturing environment. Our goal is to empower participants to explore, grow, and challenge their physical and emotional boundaries with confidence and support.
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who is it for ?
Rewild Woodland School welcomes all children, whether they are home-educated, flexi-schooled, seeking alternative provision, or just visiting the area.
Due to the wilderness setting and the nature of our activities, participants need a basic level of physical capability. Children should also be comfortable spending the day independently, away from their parents, as they explore, learn, and grow with the support of our experienced team.
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Where are we?
Nestled in the heart of ancient Sussex woodland, our 27 ache site offers children the chance to spend a full day immersed in nature, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Located in Staplecross, just outside Hastings, East Sussex, our site is easily accessible by bus, with drop-off parking available for convenience.
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What do we do?
Children will learn about: Natural History, Conservation, Bio-diversity, Bushcraft / Woodcraft, Privative Living Skills, Foraging, Campfire Cooking. They will take part in Storytelling, Music, Nature-Based Ceremonies, Community Sharing, Nature Connection Activities, Mindfulness, Play and Overnight camps.
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When is it ?
Every Monday and Wednesday 10am-3.30pm in term time, in all weathers.
(Sessions are sometimes cancelled due to extreme weather conditions including very high winds)
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What does it cost?
£33 per child, per day. Booked termly in advance (usually 6 or 7 weeks). The Monday & Wednesday groups are booked separately.
Payments are made through our booking site at Eequ
Other FAQ’s
HOW DO I BOOK?
Click on the link below to go to our booking site.
HOW DO I CONTACT YOU?
You can contact us via email on the link below.
IS THERE A TOILET?
Yes, We have a wonderful woodland compost toilet.
Can parents stay?
No, this is a drop off group for children. We are able to support specific needs and parental concerns individually. Contact us for a chat.
Do you supply lunch?
We do not supply lunch. Children will bring a packed lunch and water. But we do cook extra food on the fire quite often.
Are you a Forest School?
Yes and No! Most of our staff are forest school trained and have years of experience. But we don’t call ourselves a forest school.
Scroll down for more information on our ethos and method.
RemeRemembering Who We Are: Reclaiming Our Wild Nature
There is a truth we’ve forgotten—a truth as old as the earth itself. We are not separate from nature; we are nature. The forests, rivers, and skies are woven into who we are, yet somewhere along the way, we lost sight of this connection.
Our children are growing up in a world that pulls them away from this truth—a world of concrete, screens, and endless distractions. But deep within, their wild nature still calls. It whispers through their curiosity, their play, their instinct to climb, run, and explore.
At Rewild Woodland School, we answer that call. We believe that reconnecting with the natural world isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential. It’s about giving our children a gift they desperately need but can’t ask for: a way to stay in touch with their true selves.
Through mud-splattered hands and fire-warmed faces, through the thrill of climbing high and the quiet of listening to the wind, children rediscover something profound. They remember their place in the great web of life. They find freedom, resilience, and wonder.
This isn’t just about outdoor education; it’s about reclaiming what it means to be human. Together, we can give our children something far more valuable than any material possession—a connection to their wild nature and the earth that sustains us all.
MORE INFORMATION ON OUR METHOD
The Coyote Learning Method
Inspired by Indigenous traditions, the Coyote Learning Method encourages exploration, discovery, and problem-solving through hands-on experiences. By fostering curiosity, mentorship, and storytelling, we guide children to uncover answers themselves, developing critical thinking and a deep connection to nature.
This intuitive, playful approach nurtures independence and a lifelong love of learning. More information on this method of mentoring can be found here: Coyote Mentoring
The Value of Bushcraft
In today’s digital age, bushcraft provides children with the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of, and respect for, nature. Learning skills such as fire-lighting, woodcraft, and foraging helps children build confidence, dexterity, and coordination. It also requires focused listening, practice, and teamwork.
Bushcraft fosters a stronger connection to the environment, reduces stress, and enhances both mental and physical wellbeing. It’s about thriving, growing, and rediscovering the joy of living in harmony with the natural world. More on Bushcraft can be found here: Bushcraft
A Strong Community
Learning thrives in a supportive community where children feel valued and part of something bigger. Through collaboration, and shared adventures, friendships grow naturally.
Our inclusive environment fosters empathy, communication skills, and a sense of responsibility for people and the planet. Rewild Woodland School is more than a place to learn—it’s a place to belong. More on our community ethos here: Community
Working with the Natural Cycles of the Year
At Rewild, we embrace the rhythms of nature, guiding children to connect with the changing seasons through the Celtic calendar. This ancient calendar marks eight seasonal festivals that reflect the cycles of the earth, offering a chance to celebrate and learn from each transition.
By aligning our learning with these cycles, children gain a deeper understanding of nature's ebb and flow, from the stillness of winter to the abundance of summer. They develop respect for the environment, mindfulness, and an appreciation for balance and renewal.
Working with the Celtic calendar fosters resilience, transformation, and a sense of belonging within the greater web of life.
Conservation, Woodland Management, and Sustainability
Participants will delve into environmental education, building a deeper understanding of ecology and biodiversity. Through hands-on activities, they will develop practical woodland management and conservation skills, such as tree felling and habitat creation.
We also explore critical global challenges, including climate change and pollution, fostering awareness and meaningful discussions. By empowering children with knowledge and skills, we give them a platform to reflect on these issues and consider how we can all contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future. More on our Conservation ethos here: Conservation
Mentorship: Growing Through Guiding
We believe that mentoring is a powerful way for children to grow into confident, compassionate, and capable individuals. As children develop the skills and maturity needed, they are encouraged to step into mentorship roles within the group, fostering leadership and responsibility.
The Mentorship Journey
Starting as peer mentors, children gradually take on supportive roles, helping younger members navigate challenges and share in the joys of discovery. This ethos of peer mentoring creates a culture of collaboration, respect, and shared learning, enriching the experience for everyone involved.
For those aged 14 and older, we offer a structured Young Mentor Scheme, where participants receive tailored training and the opportunity to earn qualifications that support their future development.
This cycle of learning, sharing, and leading reflects the essence of Rewild Woodland School—nurturing children at every stage of their journey.
Behaviour Management
We foster positive behaviour through peer mentoring and conflict resolution, encouraging children to communicate openly and work together to solve challenges. We help them use the natural environment to understand and manage their emotions.
While we offer plenty of time and space for children to reflect and engage, our qualified staff are always present, carefully monitoring children to ensure their safety and well-being. We also openly discuss with the group what they feel is and is not appropriate behaviour, ensuring that their voices and needs are heard and respected. This approach helps maintain a supportive environment where all children can thrive.
“My kids love it!
Feels like a really well held space.
They return with a real energy shift and
much more connected to themselves”.
- Woodland School Parent 2019.
“my son has gained so much
during his time at project rewild.he has been
part of a tribe
of wild & free children.
he has learnt to light fires, to forage,
to use tools and work with nature.
He has spent nights under the stars,
and made lots of new friends.
he has been outside in all weathers,
he has learnt to
slow down
and connect with the natural world.
This is a truly unique and
special place for children”.
- Woodland School Parent 2024.
Meet the Team
CONTACT US FOR A CHAT: INFO@PROJECTREWILD.CO.UK
BOOKING PAGE: EEQU - REWILD WOODLAND SCHOOL
WATCH SHORTS FILMS: YOUTUBE - WOODLAND SCHOOL