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What is BUDS Forest School and Outdoor Play?

Little girl exploring a small stream with a fishing net

Child-led Play and Exploration

Two toddlers on the climbing frame

Climbing and balancing

Little girl wrapped up warm

Hammock relaxation

Everyone gathers round for story time

Story telling

Litle boy looking through some binoculars hunting minibeasts

Care for nature

Boy standing beside a den built of tree poles

Den Building

Why Outdoor Play

Physical development:

Encourages large muscle development through running, climbing, jumping, and improves coordination and fine motor skills through manipulation of natural objects.

Cognitive development:

Provides opportunities for sensory exploration through sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste, stimulating curiosity and problem-solving skills.

Social and emotional development:

Facilitates cooperation, sharing, taking turns, and building positive relationships with peers through collaborative play.

Creativity and imagination:

Offers diverse natural elements like trees, rocks, and water to spark imaginative play and storytelling.

Mental well-being:

Exposure to fresh air and natural environments can improve mood, reduce stress, and promote a sense of calm.

Risk management:

Allows children to assess and manage risks in a safe environment, building confidence and resilience.

Environmental awareness:

Fosters an appreciation for nature and the environment by exploring plants, animals, and different weather conditions.

Self-esteem and independence:

Provides opportunities for children to take initiative, explore independently, and achieve personal goals.

Natalie in her BUDS outdoor play gear with coloured streamers in the background

Hi! I'm Nat,

a qualified primary school teacher and Forest School Leader. I enjoy creating engaging outdoor learning opportunities and forest school experiences for children to lead their learning and connect with the world around them. I have seen with my own eyes how children thrive when they are able to explore freely and follow their curiosities.

Whilst I set up learning opportunities, quite often, the children will take their experience in a completely different direction, which I truly love to see. I love empowering children to be confident and innovative problem solvers, connecting with nature and their peers along the way.

BUDS Ethos

Play is taken seriously at BUDS. My approach is grounded in the principles of Forest School, where child-led play and exploration are at the heart of everything I do. I carefully plan a wide variety of outdoor activities that inspire curiosity and give children the freedom to follow their own interests, take the lead, and learn through meaningful, hands-on experiences.

Whether they choose to build dens, create natural art, use tools, sing around the fire, play woodland games, or go on bug hunts, I support each child in exploring their world in their own unique way. These adventures help them grow in confidence, independence, and resilience, building valuable life skills, often without even realising they’re learning.

What Mums and Dads Say

Parent Testimonial
We can’t recommend Mrs Green’s forest school experience enough, it was a favourite part of the week at school, and it was led with enthusiasm, curiosity and genuine passion for the outdoors. Fun yet informative sessions were a hit every single week, and we are looking forward to seeing BUDS thrive.
Parent Testimonial
Natalie taught both of my boys when they were 4 and 5, and her creativity, passion, and kindness shone through everything she did with them. She has a truly magical way of making learning fun and engaging. It’s safe to say she was a firm favourite in our house – an all-round awesome human we feel so lucky to have had her in our lives.
Parent Testimonial
My sons have nothing but love for you. Forest school for T was always his favourite lesson and we would talk about it four hours when coming home from svhool. M was always so happy coming out from school when you had covered his leasons. A great teacher and role model for our children.
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Forest School and Outdoor Play at Brampton Grange

Stay & Play Sessions
BUDS at Brampton

BUDS HQ is located at Brampton Grange, nestled between Church and Chapel Brampton, Northamptonshire. Situated amongst beautiful countryside views and between two horse paddocks, it is a dedicated, secure space that allows children to explore freely and engage in risky play.
Pre-booking is essential.

Click here to Book a Stay and Play Session
Click Here to Read More about Stay and Play
Group of chldren mixing potions at the mud kitchen

Buds School and
Nursery Sessions

BUDS are proud to offer a bespoke package for schools and nurseries, delivered in your own outdoor space. All sessions are delivered by the owner and founder of BUDS, Nat.

Click here to Read More about BUDS for Schools
Forest school birthday parties announcement

Best Buds
Birthday Party Space

Children’s birthday parties at BUDS HQ offer a relaxed, nature-inspired alternative to traditional venues. Kids can explore our themed outdoor play space tailored to their interests.

We can provide child-friendly packed lunches (sandwich, crisps, snack, drink) enjoyed in the decorated rustic barn. Weather permitting, guests can toast marshmallows around the campfire.

BUDS parties are relaxed, child-led, and open to all weather.

Think of it as a private hire of the space.

Click here to Read More about Best BUDS