Outdoor & Experiential Learning

At Mayfield, we offer programs that place exploration, physical activity, and personal development at the heart of the learning journey. Whether it’s developing resilience in the great outdoors, gaining independence through cycling, or setting personal goals through national awards, these experiences help our students grow in confidence, creativity, and character.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

We are proud to offer every student the opportunity to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) programme, regardless of their disability or level of need. We provide all three award levels – Bronze, Silver, and Gold – and are one of the few special schools in the UK to support students in working towards and achieving the prestigious Gold Award.

The DofE programme is an incredible opportunity for personal growth, where students have fun, make lasting friendships, and experience a genuine sense of achievement. Through their involvement, they develop vital life skills such as resilience, problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, communication, and social interaction. These experiences not only build self-esteem and confidence but also enhance future employability.

The DofE Award is not about competing with others – it’s about setting personal goals, overcoming challenges, and pushing beyond individual limits. Our students consistently prove they can succeed at the same level as their peers in mainstream education, making the programme a truly inclusive and empowering part of life at Mayfield.

A photo of everyone on their walk. The photo is taken from behind with them enjoying a woodland walk.

A group of hikers is climbing over a wooden stile in a green field, with two people actively crossing while others wait and watch nearby. The scene is set on a sunny day with lush trees in the background, and the hikers are equipped with backpacks and outdoor gear.

Students from the Gold group lean on the wall and look across the reservoir.

Woodland Learning

At Mayfield, Woodland Learning is an integral part of the curriculum, offering pupils meaningful, hands-on experiences in a natural setting. Through a wide range of outdoor activities, students develop practical skills, confidence, and a deep connection with the environment.

Pupils take part in activities such as planting, building fires, making s’mores, constructing dens, setting up hammocks, and creating minibeast houses. These sessions encourage creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and independence, while also embedding key life skills in a highly engaging way.

Importantly, Woodland Learning supports pupils’ mental health and emotional wellbeing. The calming influence of nature, combined with the physical and sensory benefits of outdoor work, helps reduce stress, build resilience, and improve overall mood and behaviour. This holistic approach to education supports personal development and enhances learning across the curriculum.

Pupils planting trees and enjoying Gardening Club.

Bikeability

We offer Bikeability to students who have developed their foundational cycling skills and are ready to take the next step in building confidence and independence.

Bikeability is the government’s flagship national cycle training programme in England. It equips children with practical, hands-on training to help them ride safely, confidently, and responsibly on the roads. The programme is delivered in progressive levels, building students’ skills in real-life settings, from school grounds to quiet local roads.

We are fortunate to work in partnership with Chorley School Sports Partnership, whose qualified instructors deliver the Bikeability sessions directly on site. Their experienced team ensures that every session is engaging, inclusive, and tailored to meet the needs of our students, offering encouragement and expert guidance at every step.

Through Bikeability, our pupils not only develop road safety awareness but also benefit from increased physical activity, independence, and a strong sense of achievement.