Our sustainable woodland space for children, educators and our wider community.
There is a new kind of magic settling into the woods at Forest School for Life. After months of dreaming, building and shaping, our brand new bird hide and winter cabin is ready, and it is already transforming the way our children experience nature.
Set deep within the trees and overlooking our nature pond, this beautiful space holds two identities at once, a cosy, warm cabin for winter days and a curious bird hide for quiet watching, wondering and noticing. It is a place where children can slow down, tune in and feel held by the woodland in every season.
Built with a duty to the planet. A big thanks to Appletree Bespoke Timber who brought it to life.
As an all outdoor, values led early years setting, we believe new provisions must be sustainable not just for today’s children, but for the generations who will follow them. This cabin reflects that responsibility in every detail.
It is powered by solar energy, with a 12kw system that comfortably supports our lighting, heating and daily needs. To put that into perspective, one hour of full sunshine can generate enough energy to boil dozens of kettles, plenty of warm drinks for children, staff and visiting groups, all powered by the same sun that lights the woodland.
We also harvest rainwater through a 2000 litre conversion tank, which supports our sinks and handwashing systems. Every drop is used thoughtfully, teaching children that water is precious and that sustainable choices are woven into everyday life.
Our composting toilets complete the cycle, turning waste into something that returns to the earth rather than taking from it. This is sustainability in action, visible, practical and meaningful for young children who are learning how the world works.
A warm, welcoming home for winter.
Inside the cabin, you will find:
- A gentle woodburning stove keeping little hands and toes warm
- Electricity for soft lighting and practical comforts
- A fully integrated kitchen for warm drinks, simple cooking and shared moments
- Composting toilets that honour our off grid values
On cold days, this becomes a sanctuary, a place to gather, read stories, share snacks, warm up and then head back out again with rosy cheeks and renewed energy. It means winter is not something to endure, but something to enjoy.
A bird hide that opens new worlds
From the wide windows, children can watch the life of the pond and woodland unfold. Our pond is home to newts, pond skaters, water beetles and all the traditional creatures you would expect in a thriving UK habitat. Beyond the water’s edge, deer move quietly through the trees, badgers leave their well worn paths, and rabbits and hares appear in the early light.
This hide invites children to practise patience, curiosity and gentle observation. It makes nature accessible in new ways, especially for those who need a calmer, quieter space to connect with the outdoors. Check out our trail cams, they’ve always got fresh Nature footage!
How lucky our children are! Every day, we are reminded how fortunate our children are to have access to a space like this. A place where they can:
- Feel the warmth of a fire while listening to the rain on the roof
- Watch pond life from a safe, sheltered spot
- Notice deer tracks in the mud or see the speed of the Rabbit
- Explore nature in all weathers
- See sustainability lived, not just talked about
This cabin is not just a building. It is an invitation, to slow down, to notice more, to care for the world and to feel at home in the natural world.
A space for Educators, CPD and Community
On Fridays and Saturdays, when the school is closed, this cabin becomes a rentable woodland space for small groups, including early years teams, leaders and educators seeking inspiration.
With its kitchen, electricity, composting toilets and warm stove, it is perfect for:
- CPD sessions
- Leadership retreats
- Team training days
- Reflective practice workshops
- Nature based professional development
- Creative or community gatherings
We hope this space becomes a catalyst for change, a place where educators can see what sustainable early years provision looks like in practice, and return to their own settings with renewed confidence, ideas and courage.
For more information about using our spaces, contact the office or email us for a booking form, Office@forestschoolforlife.co.uk.
We cannot wait to see how the children, and the wider sector, make it their own!
Come and see for yourself, make an appointment with Nicola, office@forestschoolforlife.co.uk
With love from the Woods,
FSfL Team x