Our Ethos
Little Nature was born from a shared belief that childhood should be filled with wonder and spent exploring, discovering and developing a genuine connection with the natural world. By connecting children with the natural world, we create meaningful experiences that inspire curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.
Each child connects with nature in their own unique way, our passionate and dedicated team of educators nurtures each child’s interests, encouraging them to explore, ask questions and experiment, supporting them as they develop into confident and independent learners. Giving children real life experiences sparks their imagination and encourages discovery from watching seeds grow, observing the changing seasons to exploring puddles and building fires. Nature is the greatest teacher.
At Little Nature we understand that play is the language of childhood and it is at the heart of every child’s development. We allow children to lead the way, sharing and extending, as through their play they build relationships, solve problems, develop resilience and discover who they are.
Our aim is for each of our children to leave us having developed confidence in themselves and their abilities, independence and resilience and with a love of learning to take forward into their future.
Every child flourish’s when they learn, play and grow alongside nature.
Our Philosophy
Little Nature’s approach is firmly rooted in the principles of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), recognising that children learn best through play, exploration, active learning and positive relationships. We create rich outdoor experiences enriched by the unique opportunities our farm that nurture the characteristics of effective learning, encouraging children to play and explore, think critically, persevere through challenges and develop confidence in their own abilities.
Our practice is influenced by Forest School principles, which place each child at the centre of their own learning journey. With regular access to the natural environment, children develop confidence, independence, resilience and a strong sense of self. Supported by our skilled educators, they learn to assess risk, solve problems, work collaboratively and develop a lasting respect for the natural world. We also value the Curiosity Approach’s child led holistic learning, embracing authentic resources, open-ended experiences and invitations to explore. By slowing down childhood and allowing children the freedom to investigate, imagine and create, we inspire deep engagement and a lifelong love of learning.
Our philosophy is inspired by the belief that children learn best through first-hand experiences. Drawing on the work of educational pioneers such as Friedrich Froebel, we recognise the importance of play as the foundation of learning. We embrace the idea that children thrive when they are free to explore, create and make sense of the world through meaningful experiences in nature. Inspired by Jerome Bruner's concept of discovery learning, we encourage children to follow their interests and curiosity. For example, fascination with birds may lead to storytelling, map-making, scientific observation, creative art, mathematical thinking and discussions about caring for wildlife. Rather than separating learning into subjects, we allow children's questions and experiences to naturally shape the curriculum.
Our team of educators work alongside each child, carefully observing, listening to their ideas and extending learning through thoughtful conversations, gentle encouragement and shared discoveries. By providing the right level of support at the right moment, we help each child build confidence while remaining firmly in control of their own learning journey. (Source -Vygotsky: Zone of Proximal Development)
Every child has the power to make a positive difference. By nurturing empathy, resilience, responsibility and respect for both people and the planet, we help children develop a strong sense of belonging and purpose. Through shared adventures, collaborative play and caring for the environment, children discover that they are not separate from nature—they are part of it.
Growing Minds
Children thrive when they are trusted, challenged, encouraged to explore and given the freedom to learn through real experiences. Time outdoors encourages children to develop a lasting relationship with the natural world and respect, value and care for the environment.
Resilience & Curiosity
Play is the language of childhood and it's through play that children develop confidence, natural resilience and an insatiable curiosity that forms the foundation of lifelong learning.
Join Our Muddy Boots Community
We invite you to experience the magic of our farm school firsthand. Come see how nature-based learning transforms early education and builds lifelong foundations.