Outdoors Group enhances education program

The Outdoors Group is bringing a fresh twist to alternative education, making learning more accessible, enjoyable, and tailored to the needs of neurodiverse young people and those facing social, emotional, or mental health challenges.

With a revamped and expanded offering, the group has reintroduced its programme under the new name, ‘Alternative Outdoor Provision’ (AOP), aiming to provide a holistic and nature-based approach that helps learners thrive outside the traditional classroom.

Previously known as the ‘Transitional Learning Programme’, AOP focuses on giving learners who need a break from mainstream education the opportunity to explore their learning in a supportive, woodland environment.

Think small-group sessions or one-on-one coaching, all designed to cater to the unique needs of each student.

A lot of these learners are neurodivergent, have experienced trauma, or are working through mental health challenges, and AOP provides them with a safe, empowering space to re-engage with their education.

The transformation of this vital service has been led by Nigel Stanley, who joined the group as a Senior Leader earlier this year.

With a background in Further Education, Nigel is passionate about helping neurodiverse and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) learners take ownership of their educational journey, giving them the space to feel heard, valued, and ultimately empowered to grow.

“This role has been an exciting way to kickstart my time with The Outdoors Group,” says Nigel. “I’m thrilled to be part of reshaping this service and am excited about the potential to help even more young people develop their skills and confidence in a way that suits their unique needs.”

Alongside the rebrand, the service has grown, now offering nature-based play therapy, autism and mental health consultancy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and therapeutic mentoring. And that's not all – AOP is also teaming up with The Outdoors School to start outreach work in local schools, helping students who need extra support.

Looking ahead, plans are underway to partner with Forest School to offer holiday clubs, providing a creative childcare alternative during the school breaks.

The addition of two new sites in Cann Woods near Plymouth and CUB in Honiton expands the group’s reach even further, offering more opportunities for young people to benefit from this transformative provision.

These sites are already welcoming young learners, with support provided both inside and outside the classroom.

Since launching its first Forest School-inspired provision at Whipton Barton in 2015, The Outdoors Group has been steadily growing, with eight woodland sites across Devon and Somerset.

The group’s innovative approach to education has been making a real difference – in 2024 alone, nearly 50 learners have experienced positive educational sessions, with the majority making excellent progress.

Looking to the future, The Outdoors Group is set to support even more learners across the region, helping them build the confidence, skills, and resilience they need to succeed - both in the classroom and in life.

With its blend of outdoor adventure and holistic learning, The Outdoors Group’s Alternative Outdoor Provision is more than just a way to learn; it’s a chance for young people to play, explore, discover, and grow. And for those who need it most, it’s a lifeline to a brighter, more fulfilling future.

For more information, visit The Outdoors Group.