Prior to 1975 the site was a field, post war allotments and then a playing field.
The buildings were known as the Wentworth Handicraft Centre (named on OS Maps).

Information received from local residents confirmed that the field and buildings were later used as an annex to Elizabeth Allen School (Hillside Gardens, Barnet). The Environmental Education Centre building was formerly science labs.

1975: With the closure of Alder Secondary School, Mr Denis Bland, a teacher at the school was asked to set up Barnet Environmental Education Centre on the 7.5 acre playing field.

Initially the playing fields mowing regime was changed, a 0.75 acre paddock was constructed, 6 biology ponds and 1 duck pond were dug. The planting in the field was ad hoc using donated trees and allowing natural succession oak and sallow (pussy willow). Four allotment plots were created and a poultry unit built.

In the building one classroom was set up as an animal room and cages were constructed and stocked with birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals and insect species. The second room was furnished as a classroom. Denis Bland devised a summer and winter trail. Schools could book to visit the Centre three days each week (a free service, more popular in the summer).

The Centre Head (Denis Bland) was supported by two part time staff and an educational steering committee including the Borough Science Advisor.

History of the Barnet Countryside Centre | History of the Friends