Outdoor learning and wellbeing play an important role in everyday school life. The school’s wide range of outdoor facilities gives young people the chance to explore, play, relax, and connect with nature in a safe and supportive environment.

Playground

The playground is full of energy and fun, offering a large track for ride-on cars, big round swings, traditional swings, and gym-style equipment. It encourages movement, play, and confidence-building in an inclusive and supportive environment.

Courtyard

At the heart of the school, the courtyard is a welcoming space where the community comes together for events, celebrations, and everyday social time. With benches and open space, it’s perfect for relaxing with friends, enjoying fun days, and sharing achievements.

Forest Area

The school’s large forest area provides a quiet, peaceful space surrounded by trees, birdsong, and wildlife. It’s a place for reflection and relaxation, helping young people find calm and focus. A cosy cabin within the forest is used for outdoor learning, creativity, and group activities.

Allotment

The school allotment is a vibrant space where young people grow flowers and vegetables, learning through hands-on experiences. They take pride in planting, nurturing, and harvesting their crops, building confidence and patience along the way. Gardening also offers a calming and therapeutic connection to nature.

Chickens & Guinea Pigs 

Hill House is home to a lively group of chickens, cared for by the young people who feed them, clean their coop, and collect their eggs. The eggs are sold to staff, with the money used to buy food, treats, and equipment making the chickens self-sufficient. This project teaches responsibility, teamwork, and empathy for animals.

In addition, the young people also care for a group of guinea pigs, ensuring they are fed, handled gently, and kept in clean, comfortable environments. These much-loved pets help build nurturing skills and provide comfort and companionship, further supporting the young people’s emotional wellbeing.

Together, these outdoor spaces offer much more than recreation, they support wellbeing, independence, and personal growth. Whether learning through nature, caring for animals, or enjoying time with friends, the outdoor facilities at Hill House School play an important role in helping every young person flourish.