OtherSpot the Difference AnswersWednesday 18th December 2024Learn 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
Eagle Owls: Shelter Building Masterclass
21st February 2025
10:00am
Come and join us in the woodland at the Treehouse to build some first class shelters! Learn a few survival skills along the way whilst you build yourself something to keep cosy, warm and out of the rain. We will teach you some different styles to help you make a unique construction to be proud...
Volunteers: Garden- Long grass cut back
24th February 2025
10:30am
Annual event for volunteers as we get the grasses get ready for another season of growth.
Volunteers- Conservation: Rhododendron cutback
25th February 2025
10:30am
Come and join us in Hartford Wood. This session is part of some ongoing work related to conservation work around Hartford Stream. A really busy week for volunteers as lots of things need doing before spring arrives. Plenty of cutting back but hopefully time for a big burn too.
Evening Talks: "The rivers and streams of the New Forest, and the fish that live in them" with Dom Longley
26th February 2025
07:00pm
If you like fish, fishing or want to know more about the wildlife in our waters, please come along to the first talk in a series our rivers and coast. We are excited to have Dom Longley from the Environment agency discussing the fish of the Beaulieu River. With the New Forest having some of...
Pop-up Shop and Cafe
27th February 2025
10:30am
Our February pop-up shop will have our usual seasonal items for sale as well as a pop-up cafe. We will have hot drinks and delicious homemade soup available to warm you up.