Our Field & Outdoor Play
Space to move, think and discover—every day.
The outside gives children room to test ideas with their whole bodies. They climb, balance, dig, carry, build, notice, question and collaborate. That kind of play supports confidence, independence, physical development and curiosity in a way that feels natural.
Outdoor experiences grow with the child. Young children enjoy fresh air, movement and local walks, while older children explore more complex play through construction, role play, messy play, gardening, problem-solving and physical challenge. The aim is not simply to “let children outside”, but to make the outdoors a meaningful part of how they learn.
Our Garden & Playground
Our large garden and playground give children daily opportunities to run, balance, explore and revisit favourite activities including the reading nook, the bug house and the bicycles.
A Glimpse into Our World
The Field
One of Mathern’s standout spaces is our beloved field at the back of the garden. Here, children can enjoy loose parts play, a huge sandpit, a mud kitchen, a craft shed, a woodworking shed, allotments, insects and plenty of room for open-ended exploration. It is an outdoor environment that invites children to invent, experiment and lead their own play.
As well as our four resident animals who the children cherish looking after and saying hello to every day.
Growing & Nature
Children can get involved with our allotment, help maintain what is growing, and spend time in our nature shed overlooking Mathern lakes. These experiences help children notice the seasons, understand change and build a real connection to the natural world around them.
Walks Beyond the Gate
Our rural village location gives us another advantage, children can go out in small groups to explore the local area safely with our wonderful staff. These walks add variety to the week and help children build awareness of their community and confidence beyond the nursery gate.
We want children to feel that outside is a place for every day learning. Staff guide, encourage and observe, while still giving children time to return to ideas, make choices and take manageable risks in a secure environment. That balance helps children become capable, resilient and deeply engaged as well as stimulated and very happy.
