What We Offer
School Day Visits at Gorsefield Rural Studies and Outdoor Activity Centre
Step out of the classroom and into the embrace of nature! Our day visits are meticulously planned to provide students with a memorable experience of learning and fun.
What We Offer:
- Tailored Visits: Whether it's during the academic year or school holidays, our programmes are adaptable to your school's unique needs.
Explore our Typical Day Visit Programme Here
For one class of 30 For two classes of 30
Pricing for the 2023/24 Academic Year:
For Tower Hamlets Schools:
One Class of 30 Students: £1,500
This includes:
- Transport
- Refreshments
- All activities
Please note: Lunch is not included. We request that students bring their own packed lunches.
Additional Students: We can cater to more than 30 students. There's an extra charge of £50 per additional student.
Two Classes on the Same Day: There is a special discounted rate of £2,650, inclusive of transport.
For Non-Tower Hamlets Schools:
One Class of 30 Students: £1,500
This includes:
- Refreshments
- All activities
Please note: Transport is not included in the price, although we can assist in arranging it. We recommend that non-Tower Hamlets schools make their own transport arrangements.
Lunch is not provided. Students should bring their own packed lunches.
Booking & Inquiries: For customised experiences or any queries, please contact us. We're here to help you plan the perfect day out for your students.
School Residential Visits
Discover the magic of Gorsefield with our immersive residential programmes, carefully crafted for schools. Experience nature like never before, whether it's during the academic term or school holidays.
Our Residential Experience:
Tailored Programmes: Dive into a wide-range of activities, designed to complement your school's curriculum and ethos.
Explore our Typical Residential Programme:
For one class of 30 For two classes of 30
Accommodation:
For Students: Our residence can comfortably host up to 46 children. They'll experience the camaraderie of dormitory living with bunkbeds, spread across rooms as follows:
Bedroom (Birch) – 7 beds
Bedroom (Oak) – 8 beds
Bedroom (Ash) – 10 beds
Bedroom (Pine) – 7 beds (Please note: Adjoins with Room 5(Holly) via a fire door and thus must be same gender occupancy.)
Bedroom (Holly) – 7 beds
Downstairs Bedroom(Cedar) – 6 beds & 1 disability bed.
Important: For mixed groups, careful planning is essential to ensure suitable sleeping arrangements. The above room details will assist in coordinating for children of different genders.
For Staff: Adults are catered for with:
4 individual staff bedrooms with en-suite shower rooms
1 staff room with 2 single beds
Dining: To ensure a comfortable dining experience for larger groups, our classroom transforms into a secondary dining room during meals.
Pricing for the 2023/24 and 2024/2025 Academic Years:
For Tower Hamlets Schools: Pricing includes transport.
For Non-Tower Hamlets Schools: Transport is not included in the cost. While we can assist with transport arrangements, we recommend non-Tower Hamlets schools to manage their own transportation.
Residential Packages: All mentioned rates cater to groups of 30 children. Additional costs apply for extra children.
- Midweek Stay (Mon – Fri): £7,200
- Split Week Stay (Mon – Fri): Two groups split between Mon – Wed & Wed – Fri: £7,600
- Overnight Stay: £1900
- Weekend Stay: (Fri – Mon): £4,560
- Customised Residential Visits: If our packages don't align with your needs, or if you have a unique idea in mind, please reach out. We're more than happy to create a bespoke experience for your students.
Additional Students: We can cater to more than 30 students. There's an extra charge of £100 per additional student.
We look forward to hosting your school for an unforgettable experience at Gorsefield!
Opportunities for Secondary schools
Discover Gorsefield: Your Gateway to Outdoor Learning & Growth
Explore Gorsefield Rural Studies and Outdoor Activity Centre
Welcome to Gorsefield Rural Studies and Outdoor Activity Centre, an Edwardian Country House situated in the heart of Essex's serene countryside. Set within 7.5 acres of lush greenery, Gorsefield is a not-for-profit centre owned by the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. We are dedicated to providing enriching experiences for children from one of London's most historically deprived areas.
Our Mission
Gorsefield is more than just an escape from the urban sprawl. It is a beacon of hope and growth, designed to foster personal development, social skills, and a profound connection with nature. Our centre serves as a pivotal retreat where children can immerse themselves in a variety of activities that promote emotional, physical, and social well-being.
Activities and Experiences
At Gorsefield, we offer a diverse range of activities tailored to meet the needs of secondary school students. These include:
- Residential Visits: 2-5 day stays that immerse students in outdoor education, enhanced academic learning opportunities and team-building activities.
- Day Visits: Single-day excursions focused on specific subjects or general outdoor learning.
- Weekend and Holiday Programmes: Special programmes during weekends and school holidays for continued learning and fun.
- Subject-Specific Workshops: Tailored workshops focusing on national curriculum subjects or other themes.
Why Choose Gorsefield?
1. Affordable Learning Opportunities: We understand the financial constraints schools face. Our programmes are designed to be cost-effective, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to benefit from our offerings.
2. Holistic Development: Our activities are designed to nurture personal growth, build social skills, and foster a deep connection with nature.
3. Sustainability: We are committed to transforming Gorsefield into a net-zero beacon of excellence, with initiatives such as our regenerative farm-to-fork culinary programme.
4. Unique Experiences: From caring for farm animals to engaging in hands-on environmental stewardship, our programmes provide invaluable life lessons.
Example Uses of Gorsefield
- Geography Field Trips: Engage students in real-world geography through hands-on fieldwork and exploration.
- Science Camps: Enhance science learning with outdoor experiments and ecological studies.
- Team-Building Retreats: Strengthen class cohesion through various team-building activities and challenges.
- Revision Sessions: Provide a quiet, focused environment for subject-specific revision and study groups.
Costs and Booking
Understanding the financial pressures on schools, Gorsefield offers competitive pricing for all our programmes. Detailed cost information is available upon request, allowing departments and headteachers to quickly assess any budget implications.
Join Us in Creating a Brighter Future
By choosing Gorsefield, you are investing in the future of your students, providing them with experiences that extend beyond the classroom. We invite you to explore how Gorsefield can benefit your school and contribute to the holistic development of your students.
For more information or to book a visit, please contact us at admin@gorsefield.org.
Together, we can cultivate a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
School INSET Days at Gorsefield Rural Studies and Outdoor Activity Centre
Embark on a journey of professional growth, team cohesion, and rejuvenation at Gorsefield - an idyllic setting for your school's INSET days.
Why Choose Gorsefield:
Picturesque Venue: Nestled amidst the serene beauty of the Essex countryside, Gorsefield offers an inspiring backdrop that is bound to invigorate the mind and soul.
- Venue Hire: Take the reins and transform our space to fit your needs. Schools have the liberty to hire Gorsefield as the venue for tailored training sessions or workshops.
- Team-Building Activities: Beyond just a venue, Gorsefield brings the promise of adventure and bonding. Dive into a plethora of outdoor activities designed to foster camaraderie, collaboration, and fun among your staff team. Whether it's testing your archery skills, navigating through orienteering challenges, or sharing stories around a campfire, our activities are sure to leave lasting memories.
- Cultivate Cohesion, Build Skills, Make Memories: Choosing Gorsefield for your INSET days means investing in an experience that's more than just professional development. It's about growing together as a team, embracing new challenges, and creating memories that will enrich your school's community spirit.
For more information or to book your INSET day with us, please get in touch. We look forward to crafting an unforgettable experience for your school's staff team.
Youth Groups and other organisations' Residential Visits
Day Visits
Step into a day of adventure, bonding, and learning at Gorsefield. We invite youth groups, Scouts, Guides, and other community organisations to make the most of our facilities and the natural wonders of the Essex countryside, even if just for a day.
Our Day Visit Experience:
Customised Activities: From team-building challenges to outdoor skill workshops, we curate a day's itinerary to mirror the aspirations and goals of your group.
[Explore our Suggested Day Visit Programme Here]
Facilities at a Glance:
Activity Areas: Engage in activities ranging from archery and orienteering to campfire skills and nature trails.
Relaxation Zones: Spaces to unwind, reflect, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings.
Guidance: Our seasoned staff are on hand to ensure activities run smoothly and safely.
Pricing Details:
One group of 30 children: £1,500
This includes:
- Refreshments
- All activities
Please note: Transport is not included in the price, although we can assist in arranging it. Lunch is not provided. Students should bring their own packed lunches.
Two groups of 30 on the Same Day: Enjoy a special rate of £2,650. Please note that this does not include transport.
Booking & Inquiries: For customised experiences or any queries, please contact us. We're here to help you plan the perfect day out for your students.
Day Packages: Our standard rates are designed for groups of up to 30 members. Should your group exceed this number, additional charges will apply. Specific rates and package details are available upon request.
Design Your Day: If our pre-set activities or schedules don’t align with your group's vision, we encourage you to reach out. Our flexible approach ensures we can adapt to create a day that your group will treasure.
Residential Visits
Gorsefield awaits, ready to be the backdrop for a day filled with memories, laughter, and learning. Join us for an enriching experience tailored just for your group!
Journey with us into the heart of nature. Gorsefield opens its doors to youth groups, scouts, guides, and various community organisations, offering immersive residential experiences set amidst the tranquil Essex countryside.
Our Residential Offering:
Customised Programmes: Embrace a wide range of activities tailored to your group's vision, objectives, and spirit. Whether it's badge earning, skill-building or pure recreation, we have got you covered.
[Explore our Suggested Residential Programme Here]
Accommodation:
Group Members: Gorsefield can welcome up to 46 participants. Experience the warmth of community living with comfortable bunkbed arrangements, divided as:
Bedroom (Birch) – 7 beds
Bedroom (Oak) – 8 beds
Bedroom (Ash) – 10 beds
Bedroom (Pine) – 7 beds (Please note: Adjoins with Room 5(Holly) via a fire door and thus must be same gender occupancy.)
Bedroom (Holly) – 7 beds
Downstairs Bedroom(Cedar) – 6 beds & 1 disability bed.
Important: When housing mixed groups, prudent planning is paramount. The aforementioned details will aid in assuring suitable sleeping configurations.
For Group Leaders/Adult Supervisors: We offer:
- 4 private bedrooms with Ensuite shower rooms
- 1 room equipped with 2 single beds
- Dining Experience: For larger groups, our spacious classroom doubles up as an additional dining area during meal times to ensure everyone dines comfortably.
- Pricing for the 2023/24 Academic Year (September 2023 – August 2024):
Residential Packages for Youth Groups: All mentioned rates cater to groups of 30 children. Additional costs apply for extra children.
Full catering and a full activity package provided:
- Midweek Stay (Mon – Fri): £7,200
- Split Week Stay (Mon – Fri): Two groups split between Mon – Wed & Wed – Fri: £7,600
- Overnight Stay: £1900
- Long Weekend Stay (Fri – Mon): £4,560
- Customised Residential Visits: If our packages don't align with your needs, or if you have a unique idea in mind, please reach out. We're more than happy to create a bespoke experience for your students.
Additional Students: We can cater to more than 30 students. There's an extra charge of £100 per additional student.
Accommodation only:
- Midweek Stay (Mon – Fri): £4,000
- Split Week Stay (Mon – Fri): Two groups split between Mon – Wed & Wed – Fri: £4,500
- Overnight Stay: £1200
- Weekend Stay: (Fri – Sun): £2,000
- Long Weekend Stay (Fri – Mon): £2,800
- Customised Residential Visits: If our packages don't align with your needs, or if you have a unique idea in mind, please reach out. We're more than happy to create a bespoke experience for your students.
Additional Students: We can cater to more than 30 students. There's an extra charge of £100 per additional student.
Private Bookings
Seeking an idyllic venue nestled in the heart of the Essex countryside for your private event? Gorsefield offers its tranquil settings, elegant Edwardian house, and sprawling 7-acre grounds for private rentals, making it an ideal choice for an array of events and occasions. Perfect to bring your family together, to celebrate a special birthday, or just as a treat for a group of friends!
Our Private Booking Offer:
Versatile Venue: Whether you're planning a family reunion, a milestone celebration, a wellness retreat, or a corporate team-building event, Gorsefield provides a captivating backdrop that can be tailored to suit your vision.
Facilities & Amenities: Beyond the stunning exteriors, Gorsefield is equipped with modern amenities, comfortable accommodations, and a wide-range of outdoor and indoor spaces. Dive into nature-centric activities or simply soak in the peaceful ambiance; the choice is yours.
Catering Options: Depending on your needs, we can provide catering solutions, from casual snacks to elaborate meals, ensuring your guests are treated to delightful culinary experiences.
Support Team: Our dedicated staff team is available to assist in the smooth running of your event, ensuring all logistical aspects are handled, leaving you free to enjoy and engage.
Booking & Rates:
Every private event is unique, and as such, our rates and offerings are tailored to your specific requirements.
For accommodation and catering only (no activities provided), our rates for 2024 are:
Up to 10 people = £700 per night
Up to 20 people = £900 per night
Up to 30 people = £1000 per night
The rates above include an evening meal, breakfast and lunch the following day for each night of your stay. All meals are prepared by our Head Chef, Leon and his fantastic team.
Private bookings are available at weekend and during the school holidays. It is unlikely that we will be able to arrange a private booking during school term times.
We can also offer a range of activities for an additional cost.
We encourage you to reach out directly for a detailed discussion on how Gorsefield can be the perfect venue for your private gathering.
Gorsefield stands as a testament to nature's beauty and serenity, promising an event as memorable as the venue itself. For further details, availability, and to visualize the potential of your private event at Gorsefield, please contact us. We're eager to bring your vision to life!
Gorsefield upstairs bedroom plan
Training
Training for School Catering Staff
Enrich Your School Catering with Gorsefield's Exclusive Training Opportunity!
At Gorsefield, we are thrilled to offer a unique and immersive training experience for your school catering staff.
Free Training for Visiting Schools
We are delighted to extend a complimentary training opportunity to any school that books a residential stay with us. As part of your visit, we invite you to bring a member of your school catering team to join us for the entire duration of your stay, or just a part of it.
Hands-On Learning with Our Head Chef
Your catering staff member will work closely with our esteemed Head Chef, Leon. In our kitchen, they will shadow Leon, gaining valuable insights into advanced catering techniques and the art of creating healthy, nutritious meals. They will learn how we utilise food grown on-site at Gorsefield or sourced fresh and locally.
Experience Our Kitchen Garden
This training extends beyond the kitchen. Your staff member will also spend time in our Kitchen Garden, learning about our on-site food growing programme and how we incorporate this into our meal planning for the children.
Building Lasting Relationships
This experience is not only about skill development but also about building connections. Your staff member will have the opportunity to engage with your school's staff and students, fostering relationships that can continue long after your visit.
Inspire and Enhance Your School's Catering
We aim to inspire your catering staff with new ideas and techniques that can elevate the food served in your school's kitchen. By participating in this unique training, your team will return with fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to school catering.
Book your stay at Gorsefield and take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to enrich your school’s culinary offerings.
P4C Thinking with Nature
Discover what happens when we think about nature, in nature. Explore the natural world and the philosophical questions it raises, using the powerful pedagogy of P4C. Book now
For further information, or to book a member of your catering staff onto this training, please contact: admin@gorsefield.org