OtherSpot the Difference AnswersWednesday 18th December 2024Learn More
Uh Oh! You're using an old web browser
Please upgrade to a modern web browser to view this website.
Share
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
-
- Pond dipping in the river nearby
-
- 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
Rivers and Streams Exhibition Day
29th March 2025
10:00am
Free Entry and parking Lego build a river competition Other activities include: water testing for beginners, dragonfly making, mind mapping a river, pond dipping game and fish quiz A chance to view the exhibition of creative and scientific work relating to the Beaulieu river in the Fort Climate Centre Refreshments available *Please note; booking is...
Volunteers: Conservation Holly cut back and path restoration
31st March 2025
10:30am
Thick gloves and loppers at the ready as we deal with some encroaching holly today. We will meet at Hartford Wood and head to an area between the main path and the shelter building area where holly has taken a bit of a stronghold and needs some taking back. If time we will make sure...
Volunteers: Garden-Herb Bed refurbishment
7th April 2025
10:30am
After several months under the covers the herb beds will soon be ready to spring into life with a whole new crop of plants and seedlings ready to be planted. we need help today to prepare the beds, incorporate some grit, lay some pebbles, check the sleepers etc. An exciting step into spring.
Big Owls: Ponds & Amphibians
10th April 2025
10:00am
Come join us to learn all about ponds and amphibians! We’ll be playing games, making frog crafts, and going pond dipping. This session will be mainly outside so please make sure you dress for the weather. Please note: All Owls must be accompanied by an adult (who will be included in the Owl ticket), and...
Eagle Owls: Woolly Wonders
17th April 2025
10:00am
We will be learning all about sheep this time at Eagle Owls. We will be getting crafty and have a go at felting using some of the carded wool from our very own flock of Shetland sheep, playing games, and even herding the sheep! This session will be mainly outside so please make sure you...