Winterfold School Awarded Prestigious Gold Learning Outside the Classroom Mark
Winterfold School is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious Gold Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) Mark — a national recognition celebrating excellence in delivering high-quality learning experiences beyond the traditional classroom.
This significant achievement places Winterfold among a select group of schools, with only three other independent schools nationally currently holding Gold status. The award reflects the School’s deep commitment to enriching its curriculum through outdoor education, educational visits, co-curricular activities and real-world experiences that inspire curiosity, resilience and a lifelong love of learning.
Winterfold’s whole-school approach to learning beyond the classroom is embedded across all age groups. Pupils benefit from a wide range of innovative opportunities, including a dedicated, purpose-built Outdoor Learning Centre for Early Years, timetabled Forest School sessions from EY through to Prep, and unique residential experiences such as a ‘Night at the Museum’.
Programmes such as Greenfingers and the Mini Greenfingers enterprise initiative encourage environmental awareness and entrepreneurial thinking, while initiatives like Winterfold Radio and Groove Diggers foster creativity and collaboration. Regular educational trips, visiting speakers, and strong pupil voice — including career-focused talks — ensure that learning is both relevant and engaging across all curriculum areas. Specialist facilities in subjects such as science, art and astronomy further enhance these experiences.
The Learning Outside the Classroom approach is widely recognised for its impact. By providing students with access to high-quality experiences beyond the classroom, schools can help young people develop into well-rounded citizens, improve academic attainment, and support their health and wellbeing. Evidence from the Council for Learning Outside the Classroom and Natural England highlights that embedding LOtC into everyday teaching can raise aspirations, re-engage learners, and deliver measurable social benefits.
Achieving Gold status is a testament to the dedication of Winterfold’s staff, the enthusiasm of its pupils, and the strength of its community-wide commitment to meaningful, safe and impactful learning.
The School’s Outdoor ¿´Æ¬¿ñÈË Lead, Mrs Annie Hall said: '
We are delighted to receive the Gold LOtC Mark. This recognition reflects our belief that education should extend far beyond the classroom walls. By providing inspiring opportunities to explore, discover and grow, we aim to equip every child with the skills, confidence and curiosity they need for the future.'
Winterfold School remains committed to ensuring that every pupil continues to benefit from exceptional learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom and into the wider world.
April 2026