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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.
Wild 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.
Local 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.

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

Owlets: Daffodils and Crocuses at Palace House
The first signs of Spring! This time of year, the Palace House Wilderness Garden is carpeted with a colourful mass of snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils. Join us as we explore the beautiful grounds and take in the beautiful scenery.  We will be meeting outside the entrance to the Motor Museum. We hope to see you...
Volunteers: Farm- Pony Stables and Tack room sort out
If we are lucky with a run of weather Po and La La (our Shetlands) could be heading out to the paddocks now. In the meantime it will be Spring clean time in the tack room and the stables. brushes, power washer, bin bags, maybe even a paintbrush could all get used this morning. We...
Young Volunteers Animal Feed and Holly Cutback
This event is open to Young Volunteers (13 – 17yrs old) accompanied by a parent or Guardian. Come and join us down on the farm initially to help us with some of our animal feeding round. Then after refreshments and a short break we will take you to our ancient woodland to help do some...
Big Owls: Incredible Insects
Join us at the tree house where we will be spending a morning scouring the for woods for incredible insects. Learn some simple methods to identify insects and locate frog spawn, after which we will enjoy plenty of juice and biscuits. There will also be the chance to take part in insect-themed crafts. We look forward to seeing you there.      Please note: Ticket includes one child and an accompanying adult, and we’re unable to...
Eagle Owls: Building Habitats and Houses
Find out who is living in the woods and test your skills at building cosy homes just like your animal friends!  Please note: Ticket includes one child and an accompanying adult, and we’re unable to accommodate non-participating siblings, regardless of age. We need supervising adults to be able to give 100% of their attention to the child taking part...

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