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
Owlets: Autumn Foraging and Footprints
26th October 2021
10:00am
Come for an autumn walk around the woodland looking out for animal tracks along the way and then create some prints to take home. Covid safety There will be a maximum of 8 children on this session. We are not able to accommodate additional siblings at Owlets. We are trying to keep the total...
Woodland Relaxation Yoga
26th October 2021
05:30pm
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...
Little Owls: Home Sweet Home
27th October 2021
10:00am
Find out who is living in the woods and test your skills at building cosy homes just like your animal friends. Covid safety There will be a maximum of 12 children on this session. We are not able to accommodate non-participating siblings at Little Owls (this includes babies). We are trying to keep the...
Big Owls: Nature Explorers
28th October 2021
10:00am
Grab some binoculars pack up your backpack and join us to explore the woods. Covid safety There will be a maximum of 12 children on this session. We are not able to accommodate additional siblings at Big Owls (this includes babies). We are trying to keep the total number of people in the group...
Eagle Owls: Make a Wizard's Broomstick
29th October 2021
10:00am
Join us at the Treehouse for a spooky, Halloween inspired session full of arts, countryside crafts and of course, lots of biscuits. After warming up indoors with a Halloween themed craft You will use traditional tools to make your own witch or wizard’s broom with hazel and birch from our woodland. As this session involves...