Our Story
A small team with a big belief in young people
We are a small outdoor-focused alternative education provision operating in and around the New Forest. Everything we do is rooted in a genuine belief that every child can learn, grow and flourish — given the right environment and the right support.
Our Story
Where it all began
Odyssey Outdoors was born out of a simple but powerful conviction: that the outdoors is one of the most effective classrooms there is. We saw children who were disengaged, anxious or struggling in traditional settings come alive the moment they stepped outside — and we wanted to build something that made that experience available to more young people.
We are a small, dedicated team operating across the New Forest and Hampshire, working closely with schools, local authorities and families to provide individualised, outdoor-based alternative provision. We are not a large organisation — and that is deliberate. Small means personal. It means every child we work with is known, valued and genuinely seen.
The name Odyssey is intentional. An odyssey is a journey — one of challenge, discovery and transformation. That is exactly what we hope to offer every young person who comes through our provision.
What We Stand For
Our values in practice
Every child can
We hold an unconditional belief in the capacity of every young person to learn, grow and achieve — regardless of their history or starting point.
Relationships first
Nothing meaningful happens without trust. We invest time in building genuine, safe relationships before anything else — because connection is the foundation of all learning.
The outdoors as co-educator
Nature is not just a backdrop. The natural environment is an active part of how we teach — offering multi-sensory, real-world experiences that no classroom can replicate.
Holistic and individualised
We do not offer a one-size-fits-all programme. Every child's provision is shaped around their specific needs, interests, strengths and goals.
Challenge by choice
We believe in stretching young people — but always at a pace and in a way that feels safe and chosen. Growth happens at the edge of comfort, not beyond it.
Curiosity and fun
Learning should feel alive. We bring energy, humour and genuine enthusiasm to every session — because when children enjoy what they are doing, they engage more deeply.
How We Work
Thoughtful, purposeful, personal
We work with schools and local authorities to understand each young person before they arrive with us. That means conversations, information gathering and careful planning — so that from day one, the provision is shaped around the individual rather than the other way around.
Sessions are delivered in outdoor and natural environments across the New Forest and surrounding areas. We embed curriculum learning throughout our activities, ensuring that time with us is not just enriching but educationally purposeful and trackable.
We provide regular progress updates, reports and communication to schools and families throughout a placement, so everyone involved can see the journey a young person is making.
Want to find out more?
We would love to talk through how Odyssey Outdoors might be the right fit for a young person in your care. Get in touch — no obligation, just a conversation.
Get in Touch