About - A Touch of the Wild

Forest School in Devon, Outdoor Learning with Heart

At A Touch of the Wild, we believe childhood should be rooted in nature, curiosity, and wonder. Nestled in the peaceful woodland of Grammarcombe Woods near Exeter, our forest school offers rich outdoor learning for toddlers, pre-schoolers, school-age children and even grown-ups.

Our Story

Founded in 2005 by Hannah Standen, A Touch of the Wild is the longest-running forest school in Exeter. What began as a small vision grew into a thriving community, led by a team of passionate Forest School leaders who believe in the power of authentic, nature-based education.

We created a place where children and their families can explore, learn, and grow together through seasonal, hands-on experiences in our private woodland, a space filled with curiosity, creativity, and connection to the natural world.

A Learning Journey

That Grows With Your Child

Toddler Forest Play

Early Years

The journey begins with sensory outdoor play, storytelling, and natural discovery tailored for our youngest explorers.

Wildlings Kindergarten

Preschool / Full-Time

Our core full-time nature curriculum where confidence, independence, and holistic development truly take root.

Holiday Adventure Clubs

School Age & Beyond

Perfect for older kids to master deep forest skills, tool use, campfire cooking, and seasonal woodland magic.

Our Forest School Approach

At A Touch of the Wild, we believe that children thrive when given the freedom to explore, play, and connect with the natural world. Our forest school approach blends outdoor learning with curiosity-led discovery, creating a rich environment for emotional, social, and physical development.

How We Teach in the Forest

Each session is designed around our core principles:

Child-Led Exploration

We follow the child’s interests and pace. There’s no rigid timetable, just natural opportunities to learn through nature, play, storytelling, tool use, and seasonal activities.

Hands-On, Nature-Based Learning

Whether it’s den-building, bug-hunting or crafting with forest materials, children learn by doing. Our woodland becomes a living classroom that changes with every visit.

Supported Risk-Taking

Climbing, balancing, using tools and lighting fires are all part of healthy risk-supported play. We guide children safely, helping them build resilience and self-awareness.

Holistic Child Development

We nurture the whole child, not just school readiness. Forest school supports communication, emotional well-being, motor skills, independence and a deep sense of connection.

All-Weather Adventure

Rain or shine, we’re outside! Experiencing the seasons helps children build adaptability and appreciation for the natural world around them.

Led by Skilled Forest School Practitioners

Our team is made up of qualified Forest School leaders, early years specialists and experienced outdoor educators. We combine nurturing care with deep knowledge of woodland learning, ensuring every child feels safe, seen and supported.

Our Promise to Families

We know that choosing the right environment for your child is a big decision. At A Touch of the Wild, we make it as reassuring and seamless as possible by providing:

Safety You Can Trust

Our experienced staff are DBS-checked, Forest School and Paediatric First Aid qualified. You can view all key policies and safeguarding documents in our Information Hub.

An Inclusive, Welcoming Approach

We proudly support families of all backgrounds, beliefs, and abilities. Every child is valued, every voice is heard.

Clear & Friendly Communication

We’re always here to answer questions, whether it’s in person during sessions, by email, or by phone outside forest hours.

Ready to Explore Our Programmes

We’d love to welcome you and your child to experience A Touch of the Wild

What Our Parents Say

"We had a fab party for my son’s birthday party. Flo and Tallum were great host and happy to help/provide things the kiddies were asking for. The place itself is great for any kiddie that loves the outdoors as it gives them lots of learning through play opportunities. Snacks/drinks were readily available throughout the whole party and sausages, marshmallows and hot chocolate were served by the fire. I will definitely be recommending this place to others and will also be using their services again for parties in the future."

“We have loved our first spring term at A Touch of the Wild. Lots of activities for the Wild Tots to get involved in, tree house deck, mud kitchen, swings, chalk play, tuff tray changing activities and weekly cooking activity with some woodland crafts.Both Katy and Kim work great as a team! Thank you for your hard work and always making us feel welcome :)”

“We had a fab party for my son’s birthday party. Flo and Tallum were great host and happy to help/provide things the kiddies were asking for.The place itself is great for any kiddie that loves the outdoors as it gives them lots of learning through play opportunities.Snacks/drinks were readily available throughout the whole party and sausages, marshmallows and hot chocolate were served by the fire.I will definitely be recommending this place to others and will also be using their services again for parties in the future.”

Stay in the Loop

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