We teach children that creation is something to be enjoyed, appreciated, and cared for, echoing the biblical idea from Genesis 2:15 that God invites us to “work and take care” of the earth. Through hands-on exploration weather play, minibeast hunts, seed planting, observation; children learn that nature is precious and purposeful.
Being outdoors helps children develop resilience, independence, and imagination. Through new challenges, sensory exploration, and playful discovery, pupils grow not only in skill but in their sense of themselves as capable, valued individuals.
This reflects the Christian belief that every child is wonderfully made and able to flourish.
Each year group returns to the theme of compassion—for creation, for others, for living things, and for themselves.
Children learn that kindness is something you do, something you notice, and something that changes the world around you.
Bible verses and reflection times help children link everyday moments of kindness with the teachings of Jesus.
Ardleigh Explorers deliberately builds in moments of quiet awe:
listening to forest sounds
noticing beauty in tiny details
reflecting on what we are thankful for
ending sessions with a blessing, prayer, or calm circle
These practices help children develop spiritual awareness—recognising moments of peace, gratitude, or awe as part of their relationship with God.
Outdoor learning naturally encourages teamwork, cooperation, and friendship.
Activities—such as collaborative shelter building, nature art, and trust challenges—strengthen pupils’ ability to listen, support others, solve problems, and celebrate each other’s gifts.
This mirrors the Christian teaching that we are a community called to “love one another” and build each other up.
Whether making mandalas, leaf crowns, nature hearts, or creation collages, children discover that their creativity is part of God’s creativity in the world.
They learn to notice beauty, create beauty, and value the beauty others create.
The Ardleigh Explorers Curriculum