Rural Studies, Riding and Outdoor Education
Rural Studies
Our Rural Studies programme is a hands-on, down-to-earth part of school life. It connects children with the land, the seasons, and the practical skills of farming and countryside stewardship, whilst teaching them to apply maths and biology to real-world situations. Children from Year 3 upwards enjoy a weekly lesson on the farm. Whether helping with lambing, learning about sustainable food production, or tending our vegetable beds, pupils develop a strong work ethic, and a sense of responsibility. It’s learning rooted in compassion, curiosity and care — and unique to a school with a working farm at its heart.
Shropshire Sheep
Children get involved in caring for and rearing our Shropshire sheep. They enjoy learning first hand about animal husbandry, responsibility, best practices, and the rhythms of farm life.
Vegetable Gardening
Growing their own vegetables teaches our pupils patience, responsibility and an appreciation for healthy, seasonal food. The excitement of harvesting their own produce is a real highlight — a moment of pride as pupils see (and taste!) the fruits of their labours.
Gloucester Old Spot Pigs
Through our Old Spots, pupils learn about pig breeding, including farrowing and rearing. They discover the economics of meat production, from costs, to marketing and selling.
Pygmy Goats
The pygmy goats at The Elms bring endless joy and laughter. Their playful nature helps pupils to develop empathy, responsibility, and a deeper connection with the animals. Simply spending time with them offers a calm, grounding experience that makes every day on the farm feel special.
Free Range Chickens
Our younger pupils help feed and tend to the chickens. Pupils are often surveying competitor prices in the local supermarkets to ensure our eggs are sold at a good price point!
Hereford Cattle
Here at The Elms, pupils have the unique opportunity to show animals at local agricultural events, thereby building confidence and presentation skills. Whether grooming sheep or leading cattle in the ring, they learn the value of preparation, teamwork and calm perseverance under pressure.
The School Show
The Elms School Show is a much-loved highlight of the year, bringing the whole community together to celebrate our rural roots. From showing home-reared livestock and home-grown vegetables to competing in baking, crafts and equestrian events, every child has the chance to shine. The day is filled with colour, excitement and a wonderful sense of pride as pupils showcase their skill, determination and care. It’s a joyful, muddy, wholehearted celebration of Elms spirit, where perseverance, endeavour and compassion are on proud display.
Riding
Equestrian pursuits are a popular and inclusive part of school life, offering expert instruction for all levels, from complete beginners to advanced riders competing at national level. With a wide range of options including individual and group lessons, weekend hacks, and competitive opportunities, pupils can enjoy riding in a way that suits their interests and confidence. Children do not need to own their own pony to take part. Our working livery system ensures that all pupils have access to well-schooled ponies and can experience every aspect of equestrian life, from grooming and feeding to taking part in shows and events.
Stable Management
Pupils take an active role in looking after the ponies such as feeding, grooming and mucking out. As a result, they develop knowledge and responsibility through every aspect of pony care.
Hacking
Weekend hacks are a firm favourite with our boarders, giving pupils the chance to explore the beautiful countryside around us, They also build confidence in the saddle, and enjoy the freedom of riding with friends.
Individual Lessons
We offer individual riding lessons tailored to every ability. This ensures each child, whether a complete beginner or experienced, can grow in confidence and skill at their own pace.
Breakfast Club
Before the school day begins, pupils at The Elms bring the ponies in from the fields, feed them, and prepare the stables, ensuring they are well cared for.
Group Lessons
Group riding lessons are organised by ability level and give pupils the chance to learn from one another while developing their riding skills in a fun, sociable environment.
Competition
Children have the chance to compete in riding events at every level, from local shows to prestigious national competitions. There are ample opportunities to showcase their dedication, skill, and sportsmanship.
Outdoor Education
Learning in the great outdoors is an integral part of life at The Elms, with all pupils enjoying weekly timetabled lessons in our woodlands and wild spaces. From den-building and fire-lighting to team challenges and quiet moments of reflection, outdoor learning encourages resilience, creativity and hands-on problem-solving. Whether it’s our youngest children discovering the world of bugs, or older pupils tackling shelter construction, woodland time helps develop independence, confidence and a spirit of adventure, giving children space to grow beyond the classroom.
Den Building
Den building at The Elms is pure childhood joy. It provides a chance to explore and laugh with friends, making the kind of muddy and adventurous memories that every child ought to experience.
Camp Craft
Lessons in fieldcraft offers hands-on experiences in foraging and cooking. Campfire safety, including lighting and extinguishing, is also taught.
Woodland Skills
Pupils learn practical woodland skills such as building shelters and using tools safely. They acquire confidence, and a strong sense of achievement through real hands-on experiences.
Bushcraft
Bushcraft sessions introduce pupils to traditional skills like knot-tying, wood whittling and natural navigation. This helps them to build patience, self-reliance and a real sense of achievement in the outdoors.
Camping
Camping at The Elms is all about fun! From toasting marshmallows and storytelling around the fire to games in the dark. It’s a magical adventure that creates unforgettable memories.
Orienteering
Outdoor Education also inlcudes orienteering which challenges pupils to think independently and to observe carefully. As they navigate through woodland and fields using maps and compasses, they gain a real sense of adventure.
