Programmes for early years and foundation stage

At Hardwick and Wharton Park, we understand that the early years are some of the most formative.

All-round learning and development

We have an exciting range of themed workshops, designed with all the needs of young children in mind. These sessions are designed to support every area of current EYFS outcome guidelines and beyond.

During our workshops we offer rich opportunities for children to explore the unique landscape of our parks allowing them to play and learn through carefully scaffolded practical experiences. Whether it's counting, sorting and colour matching, scavenging for materials to sculpt and create, developing construction and social skills through miniature den building, hunting for clues in a make-believe world or discovering signs of animal life and habitats in the real world, each activity is fun, active and memorable.

The new and the familiar

We appreciate that a child's visit to us may be one of their first to a natural place, so we create days that appeal to both those who are familiar with or new to these environments.

We know that children who have positive early experiences in natural places are more likely to make use of them for their lifelong health and well-being. This motivates our staff to make every moment special. We aim to develop children's sense of wonder and interest in the world around them and build their confidence to explore using multi-sensory approaches.

Experienced and enthusiastic education team

An experienced and enthusiastic education assistant will lead the workshop at your group's pace. This gives teaching staff the perfect opportunity to observe their group in a natural and neutral environment.

We work with you to ensure that the whole visit process is smooth, from booking through to follow-up activities in your setting.