Staff Volunteer UpdatesVolunteer Profile: Marg VerdonTuesday 28th January 2020Learn 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: Tree Tapping
24th February 2020
10:00am
This is the time of year for harvesting the Sap of the birch and field maple trees in the woodland.
Guided Walk: The Trees of Hartford Wood
1st March 2020
09:00am
Hartford Wood is an ancient woodland on the Beaulieu Estate that has been under the management of the Countryside Education Trust since 1975. Management for the benefit of education and conservation gives this beautiful habitat an enchanting and special feel. Join us for a guided morning walk to find out how to identify some of the classic broadleaf...
Little Owls: Signs of Spring - Wednesday
4th March 2020
10:00am
Snacks provided, please let us know if you or your child have any allergies. Please note that all children must be accompanied by a participating adult. There are no charges made for supervising adults at Owls Clubs. We recommend bringing wellies to Little Owls as there is always mud to be found in the woods...
Little Owls: Signs of Spring - Thursday
5th March 2020
10:00am
Snacks provided, please let us know if you or your child have any allergies. Please note that all children must be accompanied by a participating adult. There are no charges made for supervising adults at Owls Clubs. We recommend bringing wellies to Little Owls as there is always mud to be found in the woods...
Bird Watching Walk: Park Shore
15th March 2020
09:00am
A walk on the private land of the Beaulieu estate. We should see wildfowl, waders (including avocet), skylark and pipits.