Grow School’s Visits to Whitehough: How Nature has Helped Students Thrive

This academic year, Whitehough has had the pleasure of welcoming students from the Grow School on weekly visits. Based locally, the Grow School supports young people with special educational needs and uses our centre as a retreat to help students re-focus, recharge and develop outside of the classroom.

Each visit brings a small group of students, offering them a break from routine and a chance to connect with nature, their peers, and themselves, as well as our resident dogs, Penny and Lucy!

Pupils have found Whitehough provides a rare opportunity to experience a new environment, which helps reduce stress, whilst sparking curiosity!

Building confidence through the outdoors

During their time here, students have taken part in activities such as Leap of Faith, High Ropes and a variety of outdoor challenges. These sessions are designed to stretch comfort zones and encourage team support.

One of the students shared:

“Whitehough is one of my favourite places to go. It’s peaceful, and I feel calm when I’m here. I really like the Leap of Faith – it’s a bit scary, but I feel proud when I do it. Being outside just helps me think clearer and feel better.”

Supporting focus and wellbeing

Charlotte, one of the school’s teachers who oversees SEND and safeguarding, has seen first-hand how these visits influence classroom outcomes:

“We’ve noticed improvements in focus and attention in school after our students spend a day at Whitehough. The activities give them a chance to relax, but also push themselves in a way that feels safe and supported. It’s been especially encouraging to hear the students cheering each other on – the team spirit and social interaction really bring something out in them.

These positive behaviours – teamwork, resilience, encouragement – are core to both the activities and the long-term benefits students take home with them.”

Making an impact beyond the visit

Many students show more engagement in school after a trip, with teachers reporting better emotional regulation and greater enthusiasm in the classroom. The chance to build independence and confidence in a non-traditional setting often translates into real progress over time.

Grow School now books regular sessions throughout the year, and we’re proud to support them in creating meaningful experiences that go beyond education.

To learn more about how Whitehough can support your school or organisation with tailored outdoor experiences, get in touch with us!

Contact our sales and marketing coordinator Arbaaz: [email protected] for more information