News ArticleRecording the Weather at the CETSunday 28th March 2021Learn More
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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.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
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- Pond dipping in the river nearby
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- 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
Woodland Relaxation Yoga
27th July 2021
07:00pm
Gentle yoga at the Treehouses in the heart of Hartford Wood, suitable for any level and total beginners are very welcome. A lovely way to relax, unwind and allow yourself to feel connected with nature in an enchanting setting. It’s an excellent way to improve your flexibility, mental and physical wellbeing. All participants will need...
Big Owls: Secret Life of Plants
28th July 2021
10:00am
Plants are nature’s magicians: they make their food out of thin air, and produce seeds that are carried for miles by animals or the wind. They can be strong as an oak, or as a bendy as a willow. Come and learn more about the secret life of plants. Covid Mitigation Measures There will...
Chair Yoga Single Ticket
28th July 2021
10:00am
Enjoy this 30 minute chair yoga session in the wonderful setting of the Treehouse Study Centre followed by an opportunity for a tea or coffee and a chat out on the balcony. There are many benefits to chair yoga for both mental and physical well being. It can be modified to suit any ability and...
Campfire and Artist's Charcoal Making
29th July 2021
10:00am
This session will cover the basics of fire-lighting. We will then use our campfire to make morning refreshments and create some artists charcoal to take home. We will be outside for the duration of this activity so please dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Please do not attend if you have symptoms of Coronavirus. A...
Guided Walk: Tree Trail and Pond Dipping
2nd August 2021
10:00am
Take a guided walk around the Hartford Wood tree trail. The walk will be led by one of our Education Officers and will include a look at some of the most ancient trees in the woodland. We will also stop to do some pond dipping at the Middle Pond and have a look at some...