Learning and growing in the natural world 

Sometimes the best education takes place outside the classroom, and the natural world is a great place to start. Personal growth, caring for the environment and the benefits of the great outdoors are the driving force behind TMS Outdoor Learning 16+.

New for 2025, our popular post-16 venture gives young people the chance to develop new skills, care for the environment and have fun. 

 Fresh air, fresh start

Nestled in 2.5 acres of countryside in Hazel Wood, Little London, Gloucestershire, TMS Outdoor Learning consists of mature woodland, open pasture and two lakes where 16 to 18-year-olds who struggle with mainstream education can get back to basics in a natural environment. 

Through small group activities or one-to-one sessions with their TMS mentor, students:

• build confidence, independence and resilience
• improve teamwork, leadership and communication skills
• gain practical problem-solving experience
• explore post-16 pathways in education, training or employment

Students use tools and machinery to create and nurture an environment that matches their vision, and to develop valuable life skills, such as project management, creativity, imagination, resilience and manual labour.

They take responsibility for different aspects of the site, such as maintaining and clearing the woodland, preparing the lakes for fishing, wild cooking, foraging, craftsmanship or preservation of the site’s abundant wildlife – including deer and birds of prey. 

Natural values

TMS Outdoor Learning provides a clear pathway for post-16 and promotes our NATURE ethos: 

• Natural world 
• Achieving 
• Teamwork 
• Understanding 
• Responsibility 
• Environment 

Students at TMS Outdoor Learning are supported with their Preparation for Adulthood (PfA) qualification – including English and maths, AQA/ASDAN awards, construction, work placements and maintenance-related opportunities. 

They develop improved self-confidence, a sense of responsibility and a clear understanding of their next steps, all while enjoying the natural rewards of fresh air, activity and nature. 

What our students say

Here’s what one of our students said about TMS Outdoor Learning: 

“My TMS mentor helped me overcome my struggles, move on from my past and make a better future. The staff have helped me become a better person and sessions were the highlight of my week. I wish there were more people in the world like TMS.”