New Forest School to Launch at Hylands Park in Chelmsford This November
Children will soon be able to explore the great outdoors, learn woodland skills and enjoy nature-based activities as a new forest school prepares to launch at Hylands Park in Chelmsford.
A new outdoor learning programme called Woodland Wanderers Forest School is set to begin in November 2026, offering sessions for children aged between two and 11.
The initiative, announced by Chelmsford City Council, will take place within the grounds of Hylands Park and aims to encourage children to develop confidence, creativity and practical skills through outdoor play and exploration.
Sessions will be led by Clare Houghton, an experienced primary school teacher with 25 years in education.
Outdoor adventures for younger children
The forest school will offer two programmes designed for different age groups.
Little Saplings is aimed at children aged two to five and will provide opportunities for younger participants to discover the natural world through play, exploration and hands-on activities.
Sessions are scheduled to begin on Monday 9 November 2026, running from 10am until 11.30am.
The activities will encourage children to explore woodland surroundings, use their imagination and develop an appreciation of nature.
Woodland Explorers for older children
Children aged six to 11 will be able to join Woodland Explorers, a programme designed to provide more adventurous outdoor learning experiences.
Sessions are planned for the first and third Saturdays of each month, giving school-aged children opportunities to develop new skills outside the classroom.
Activities will focus on learning through nature, encouraging teamwork, problem-solving and independence in an outdoor environment.
Group sizes will be limited to a maximum of 15 children, allowing participants to benefit from a smaller, more personal learning environment.
How much does the forest school cost?
Prices for Woodland Wanderers sessions start at £16 per child, with a 10% discount available for siblings.
Families attending a booked session will also be able to park at Hylands Park free of charge using a session parking permit.
A further benefit is a 10% discount at The Deli café in the Hylands Stables, giving parents and carers an opportunity to enjoy refreshments during their visit.
Encouraging children to connect with nature
Forest schools are designed to help children learn through regular outdoor experiences rather than traditional classroom-based lessons.
Activities can encourage curiosity, physical activity, communication and confidence while allowing children to explore natural environments.
Hylands Park, with its extensive parkland and woodland areas, provides a setting for the new programme.
The launch adds another family activity to the range of attractions and events available at the popular Chelmsford estate.
When does Woodland Wanderers Forest School start?
The new sessions are scheduled to begin in November 2026.
Location: Hylands Park, Chelmsford
Little Saplings: Ages 2–5, Mondays from 9 November, 10am–11.30am
Woodland Explorers: Ages 6–11, first and third Saturdays of each month
Cost: From £16 per child
Sibling discount: 10%
Group size: Maximum 15 children
Parking: Free for booked sessions with a parking permit
Families interested in attending should check the official Hylands Estate website for further details, availability and booking arrangements.
For more information, visit Hylands Estate.
Source: Chelmsford City Council, City Life — announcement published 16 October 2026.