Learning Through Nature

At Norwich Lower School, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Through a rich and inspiring natural environment, our dynamic Learning Through Nature approach nurtures curiosity, creativity and a lifelong connection with the world around us, helping our children to build confidence and encourage a sense of responsibility for the environment.

Our diverse outdoor spaces create an exciting and immersive environment for learning through nature. From the woodland outdoor classroom to the tranquil Wildlife Garden and beehives, pupils engage in hands-on exploration and seasonal discovery. Younger children develop confidence through play in the Early Years Adventure Playground, while the Little Roots Allotment fosters sustainability and an understanding of food production. The expansive Lower Close Playing Field allows learning to flow seamlessly outdoors, and the Riverside Discovery Dock offers unique opportunities to connect with waterside ecosystems.

Together, these spaces inspire curiosity, collaboration and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Woodland

Outdoor Classroom

Wildlife Garden

and Beehives

Early Years Adventure Playground

A pupil with a teacher in pre-reception.

Little Roots

Allotment

Lower Close

Playing Field

Riverside Discovery

Dock

Find out more about Learning Through Nature below:

Exploring the Wildlife of the Cathedral Close

By Eleanor Lewis • June 2, 2026

Recently Pre-Reception and Upper One pupils had an enriching experience observing the peregrine falcons which live on the spire of Norwich Cathedral. They visited the Watchpoint, a viewing station run by the Hawk and Owl trust and learned that the falcon pair currently have two chicks. Pupils were able to view both parent birds bringing food to the chick, and they had the opportunity to watch them being fed close-up, through telescopes. Using binoculars, they also observed the various other birds that live in and around the Cathedral Close. Pupils also examined models of different birds of prey, such as a kestrel and a hobby, noticing how they are adapted to catch their prey. To complete their visit, the children had fun trying on model wings of various UK birds of prey and even tested them out by going on a short 'flight' around the Lower Close. Thanks to the Hawk and Owl Trust for providing pupils with this excellent encounter with the fascinating wildlife that we share the Cathedral Close with.

Little Roots Allotment Open Afternoon – Beautiful Pots of Colour Were Created!

By Eleanor Lewis • March 13, 2026

On Friday 13 March, the Little Roots Allotment was delighted to welcome parents, grandparents and pupils to the open afternoon. This event gave families the opportunity to look round the evolving gardening space and experience the allotment in its new location. It was wonderful to see many families exploring the allotment and admiring the work that has been done by pupils so far. Pupils had the chance to get their hands dirty and plant their very own spring planters, which they took home— just in time to make the perfect Mother’s Day gift! Surrounded by cheerful flowers and newly emerging vegetables, the afternoon was filled with excitement, creativity, and an appreciation for the beauty of our unique school grounds.

Colourful Creatures Come to Life in the Little Roots Allotment

By Eleanor Lewis • November 25, 2025

Lower School pupils enjoyed an inspiring visit from local author and award-winning illustrator Ben Rothery ON, who spent the day helping children bring the Little Roots allotment area to life with colourful minibeast artwork. Ben began by sharing a fascinating range of minibeasts with the pupils, demonstrating how to observe details closely and shade them accurately. Using his expertly drawn outlines and acrylic pens, pupils then set to work decorating the raised beds and garden shed with vibrant insect illustrations. Elephant hawk moths, dragonflies, rose chafer beetles, seven-spot ladybirds, and orange-tip butterflies are among the beautifully coloured creatures now adorning the allotment area. The finished artwork not only provides some pops of colour in the area but also gives pupils a glimpse of the minibeasts they might spot in our school garden next summer. Ben gave pupils a wonderful hands-on experience that combined art, nature, and creativity and the project has left the allotment buzzing with colour and excitement for the seasons ahead.

Learning Through Nature