A historic farm in Harrow has been brought back to life as a hub for outdoor learning, thanks to a new community-led initiative.
The farm, part of Harrow School, was transformed last week (10–11 July) into a nature-based classroom as 240 pupils from five local primary schools took part in a two-day pilot project.
The scheme is a partnership between Harrow School’s Shaftesbury Enterprise and Young Harrow Foundation, supported by local charities and volunteers. It aims to create a long-term outdoor learning space for schools and community groups.
Children took part in activities such as forest school sessions, bug hunts, planting, and meeting animals, with support from Woodland Adventure Forest School, Harrow Nature Conservation Forum, Ark Farm, My Yard, and volunteers from Harrow School, West Lodge and John Lyon School.
Dan Burke, CEO of Young Harrow Foundation, said: “It’s great to see local charities and schools working together to enrich and diversify the learning experiences of local children, making the most of spaces and resources right here on our doorstep. Creating these opportunities is exactly the kind of gap we’re always trying to bridge through our work and partnerships.”
Tim Dalton, Director of Shaftesbury Enterprise at Harrow School, added: “This marks a significant and exciting opportunity for Harrow School to deepen our commitment to partnership across the borough. We are proud to collaborate with local organisations to create a vibrant, high-quality space that will serve and inspire many throughout the Harrow community.”
There are hopes the site will now grow into a permanent learning space for outdoor education across the borough.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
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