Cameleon Lodge - Forest School

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Cameleon Lodge... Where Learning Meets Nature

Cameleon Lodge one of APTCOO’s rural satellite centres, is nestled within the stunning Thoresby Estate in Nottinghamshire. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Sherwood Forest, this serene environment provides the perfect backdrop for learning

and personal development.

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About Cameleon Lodge

Cameleon Lodge is home to APTCOO’s Forest School, an inspirational program designed to foster confidence, self-esteem, and holistic growth in young learners. Through hands-on learning experiences in woodland areas, the program supports play, exploration, and supported risk-taking in a natural, outdoor setting.

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The Cameleon Lodge Vision

At APTCOO, we believe that Forest School is more than just knowledge development. It’s about nurturing learners socially, emotionally, spiritually, physically, and intellectually. By creating a safe, non-judgmental, and nurturing environment, we encourage learners to grow through experiential learning, developing resilience, self-belief, and the confidence to overcome challenges.

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The Cameleon Lodge Curriculum Offer

The curriculum at Cameleon Lodge integrates the principles of Forest School education with traditional academic subjects and project-based learning, offering a balanced, holistic approach to learning.

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Hands-On Learning in Nature

Key Activities: Practical tasks like den building, tool use, fire lighting, and wildlife observation serve as opportunities for real-world application of Maths, English, and other subjects. Learners connect with nature, developing critical thinking and ecological awareness.

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Integrating Maths Through Outdoor Activities

Measurement and data collection in natural settings, such as calculating the height of trees, measuring distances, or tracking animal movements. Geometry concepts through tasks like constructing dens or mapping out woodland areas. Problem-solving exercises, such as managing resources for building projects or calculating ratios for mixing natural materials like clay or mud.

 

Enhancing English Skills Through Nature

Creative writing inspired by the natural environment, such as poetry, descriptive writing, or storytelling. Reading sessions in the woodland setting, with a focus on environmental themes or adventure literature. Communication and presentation skills developed through group storytelling, sharing project outcomes, or participating in debates on environmental issues.

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Project-Based Learning in the Forest

Designing and building a bug hotel or birdhouse combines math (measurement, scaling) with art and ecology. Conducting environmental studies, such as observing and recording biodiversity, integrates science, English (report writing), and ICT. Learners work collaboratively on long-term projects, such as creating a woodland map or organizing conservation activities. Projects promote teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving while linking multiple curriculum areas. 

 

Environmental Stewardship and Social Responsibility

Activities that teach respect for the environment, such as tree planting, waste reduction, and habitat conservation projects. Promotes an understanding of sustainability and the importance of caring for natural resources.

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Our Outdoor Methodology with Academic and Project-Based Learning develops:

• Builds resilient, confident, and independent learners

• Functional Maths and English outcomes are delivered through focused learning and practical applications.

• Encourages creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.

• Fosters a lifelong connection to the natural world and a sense of responsibility for its care​

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