Groundwork expands outdoor learning programme to provide access to nature for more young children

We are delighted to announce that even more children and families across the East of England will now be able to enjoy greater access to nature following the expansion of our Wellies in the Woods programme.

Wellies in the Woods first began in Hertfordshire in 2016 and provides outdoor play and learning opportunities through storybook-inspired sessions in local parks, woods and outdoor spaces, in communities in need of extra provision.

Thanks to additional funding and investment from Miller Homes and the Bupa Foundation, delivery has grown, increasing access to the outdoors and providing health and wellbeing benefits for more pre-school children and their families.

Wellies in the Woods provides a solution to this and inspires families to connect with nature on their doorsteps by demonstrating low-to no-cost activities that families can do at home together, enabling disadvantaged young children and families to safely explore, develop and learn.

Through being involved, children build their confidence, improve early development and form a lasting connection and appreciation with nature, alongside improving literacy skills and encouraging reading.

We feel better after attending a Wellies in the Woods session – being outdoors noticeably improves our wellbeing. We go every week, even in the winter when it’s cold or wet!

Parent of a toddler attending a Wellies in the Woods session

At Miller Homes, our purpose is creating great places where people and planet prosper. Partnering with Groundwork on the Wellies in the Woods programme is a natural extension of that commitment, helping children connect with nature, grow their confidence, and strengthen their literacy skills. We’re proud to support a charity that’s making such a meaningful difference in young lives and the future of the communities where we build new homes

Stewart Lynes, Chief Executive Officer, Miller Homes

Being outdoors together as a family is a wonderful way to feel happier and healthier. Nature helps us relax, feel more connected, and enjoy special moments with the people we love. The Bupa Foundation is proud to support Groundwork’s Wellies in the Woods programme, helping families build healthier minds and bodies through time in nature

Anna Russell, Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Director, Bupa Global & UK and Bupa Foundation

We all know how important early childhood experiences are in setting expectations and creating habits that last a lifetime – both good and bad. Ensuring more parents and guardians of young children have the confidence and support they need to explore the outdoors is not just important for children’s health and development but also helps families to bond.

The government has prioritised early years provision as one if its core missions and is also working to ensure more people are able to access and connect with nature close to home. Initiatives like Wellies in the Woods offer the professional support and encouragement needed to ensure the benefits of both are available to families who most need them. Thank you to our partners in helping us kickstart this new phase of the programme and we welcome further conversations with future supporters for this important Groundwork initiative.

Graham Duxbury, Chief Executive, Groundwork UK

Outdoor play is vital for children’s development, but we know it can feel daunting to take those first steps. Wellies in the Woods is about building confidence, sharing ideas, and showing how outdoor learning can be simple, safe, and fun—all year round

Hannah Smith, Team Manager, Groundwork East

Groundwork is working alongside the Edinburgh & Lothians Greenspace Trust to support delivery in Scotland.