Wildlife NewsButterfly Counts for 2024Friday 18th April 2025Learn More
Uh Oh! You're using an old web browser
Please upgrade to a modern web browser to view this website.
Share
What we do
Established in 1975, The Countryside Education Trust’s mission is to connect people with the countryside. Forty years ago we were pioneers, but now we are experts! We introduce people to the wonders of the British countryside, rural life and farming. Our expert teaching team tailors national curriculum-based modules to the needs of each school and we have great feedback from our visitors.
Farm Life
We welcome schools all year, with an emphasis on hands-on, outdoor learning. Schools visit for a week, half a week or a day. Residential visitors experience daily life on the farm, collecting eggs from our hens for breakfast, helping with animal feeding and picking their own vegetables from the garden.Farm Life
Based at Home Farm in the New Forest, we also have Treehouses close by in ancient woodland. Blessed by a wonderful position, close to woods, a river, heathland and the sea, we have a variety of habitats on our doorstep and teach a wide range of environmental and bush craft activities.Farm Life
Beaulieu village, the historic Palace House and monastery, and the National Motor Museum are all within walking distance. Slightly further afield is Bucklers’ Hard, a historic shipbuilding village, reached by a lovely riverside walk.-
- Schools trips in the forest
-
- Pond dipping in the river nearby
-
- Bird of prey
The Countryside for Everyone
We run regular playgroups Owlets (0-2), Little Owls (2-4) and Big Owls (4-6). The general public is welcome for family days and we hold a variety of events and courses throughout the year to introduce people to country living, rural crafts and wildlife. Home Farm is perfect for groups of families or friends who want to spend time in the countryside and our Treehouses host truly beautiful weddings.
Upcoming Events
Dawn Chorus Birdwatching
4th May 2025
06:00am
This birdwatching event will be led by talented ornithologist, Graham Giddens, and located at Needs Ore Nature Reserve. With over 20 years experience leading wildlife groups, you will be sure to get the most from your experience. Guiding you through coastal marshland, this carefully planned walk offers stunning scenery and ample opportunity to spot some...
Volunteers: Garden/Maintenance- Play Area tidy up
7th May 2025
10:30am
Another “not Monday” Another “focus to be decided” as we tackle our play area. It might be just some weeding and cutting back but with a new gazebo going up in the afternoon there could be some prep work needed for this too. Excuse the change from usual day. not a bank Holiday this time...
Conservation Awareness Day
11th May 2025
11:00am
We are very excited to be hosting the Conservation Awareness Day at Home Farm this year in collaboration with the Beaulieu Estate Come and meet people from lots of local conservation organisations and initiatives. Find out how you can get involved and help nature to thrive NEW FOR 2025: programme of talks throughout the day...
Volunteers: Garden: Herb Beds part 2
13th May 2025
10:30am
Hopefully something for everyone today a bit of heavy lifting but some gentle planting, potting and separating too as we divide our time between, trying to complete the new Herb beds and sorting plants to sell at the Milford plant fair. Please note that this event is on a Tuesday due to staff availability.
Little Owls: Down on the Farm
22nd May 2025
10:00am
Come and see what’s new, meet this years lambs and have a cuddle with some fluffy rabbits. All this and other games activities and fun, so grab your wellies and come and see us ‘Down on the Farm’. This session will be mainly outside so please make sure you dress for the weather. Please note:...