The Picnic Area Through The Trees

Who We Are and What We Do

The Denis Bland Nature Reserve was created from school playing fields as a centre for environmental education. The London Borough of Barnet played a major role in the early years of establishing this facility.

There are 7.5 acres of countryside safely enclosed with no public access where your children will enjoy the unique experience of being able to learn in the great outdoors! We have a network of paths that take the children through woodland, around our three ponds and alongside meadows. We have a lovely picnic area where the children can sit under the trees to eat their packed lunches before departure.

For almost 40 years this centre has been helping to teach young people how to enjoy, respect and learn the ways of the countryside and their environment. Since 2006, the Trustees have been facilitating classroom visits. Over 1,000 children visited us during the 2011-2012 academic year.

We facilitate educational visits for all groups, providing access to nature and caring for wildlife. Bring your classes for that outdoor classroom session! An experienced teacher can be booked or lead your own session.

The day starts at the Centre at 10.00am and finishes at 2pm for a whole day centre-led visit. Alternatively choose a half day session which finishes at 12pm. We can include a break between activities if required. Usually about 1 hour is allowed for your picnic lunch.

What We Offer

• An experienced teacher
• School activities for EYFS, KS1 and KS2 - click on School Activities for more information
• A safe, enclosed nature reserve
• A well-equipped classroom for 30 children
• An indoor lunch facility, cloakrooms and toilets
• A picnic area and groundsheets
• Free orange squash/water for children and tea/coffee for adults will be provided
• Teacher’s guides and reference books/keys to help your self-led visits
• A risk assessment guide
• Cross-curricular learning
• A twilight introductory session at no charge (please see below for further information)

Teacher Comments

“Fantastic morning very well led, all children were really engaged and enjoyed it all. Just right for the year group. Perfect!”. Danegrove School, Reception

“A wonderful day for children of all ages, such a worthwhile experience.”
North London International School, Year 3

Please click on Comments from school visitors for comments over the years.

The Next Twilight Introductory Session

Tuesday 23 April 2013, 4pm – 5.30pm
Come and join us for light refreshments at 4pm followed by a tour of the nature reserve and facilities. An excellent opportunity to meet with our teachers and the chance to book your class visit at the Barnet Countryside Centre, Byng Road, Barnet. There is no charge for these sessions. Please let us know you intend to come by contacting the centre mobile on 0781 6890128 or email us on info@fobcc.org.uk

School Activities | Booking Information | Comments from school visitors | Location