Whole Child Curriculum
Outdoor Education
At Goldwyn School, we recognise the powerful impact of real-world, outdoor learning experiences. Our outdoor education offer is a vital part of our Whole Child Curriculum, supporting students to develop confidence, resilience, teamwork, and independence beyond the classroom
We are proud to have a dedicated Outdoor Education Lead and to offer Forest School provision across all sites. Every KS3 student accesses Forest School as part of their curriculum, with a particular focus in Year 7, where it plays a key role in supporting transition—building relationships, trust, and a sense of belonging. Forest School is also used as a targeted intervention across the school, helping students regulate, re-engage, and develop essential social and emotional skills.
As students progress, opportunities widen. In Year 9, students can take part in Challenger Troop (Kent)—a programme led by Simon Dean, who is also a valued governor at Goldwyn School. Challenger Troop offers structured outdoor and team-based experiences designed to develop leadership, discipline, and personal responsibility, supporting students to grow in confidence and aspiration.
At KS4, students are offered the opportunity to participate in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE). This nationally recognised programme encourages young people to challenge themselves through physical activity, skill development, volunteering, and expedition. It builds resilience, independence, and a strong sense of achievement, while preparing students for future pathways in education, employment, and life.
Our outdoor education offer reflects our belief that some of the most important learning happens beyond the classroom. Through these experiences, students develop:
- Resilience and perseverance
- Confidence and self-belief
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Independence and leadership
At Goldwyn, outdoor education is not an add-on—it is a core part of how we support young people to grow, succeed, and thrive in the wider world.
