Location and Environment
FLS operates from Skeet Hill House, set in seven acres of beautiful rural Kent, in Greater London, UK. Orpington Station is just ten minutes away by car, as is Junction 4 of the M25. We share the site with Sadeh Farm, whose work focusses on engaging young people in environmental education; practising and teaching regenerative land practices. There is a wealth of expertise at the site and we are always looking for opportunities to build links between FLS and the farm.
Our indoor learning spaces are situated in the 450 year old house, originally built as a Dower house for Lullingstone Castle. The site has a rich history and huge potential for us to grow into as an educational setting. Inside our learning spaces are cosy and homely. Children can play games and read while relaxing on large sofas or lying on rugs, and inspired by the Finnish, everyone wears slippers when indoors. Outdoors there is a tennis court, swimming pool, chicken coops, polytunnels, large open spaces and a woodland area.
Throughout the day, children can explore and enjoy a variety of experiences that channel learning through a balance of creative play, facilitated project work and investigations, as well as adult-directed focussed activities. The emphasis on academic learning increases as each child demonstrates that she or he is ready. Children work in small groups ensuring they become confident and able learners ready to face challenges and learn from their mistakes.
We are passionate about providing autonomy in learning and we support children in following their interests and passion. The morning is based around our cross-curricular, interdisciplinary Big History Project curriculum, and Maths and Literacy skills. We offer different options in the afternoons, ranging from Science workshops, to French, Animal Husbandry, Swimming, Performing Arts, Swimming, and Survival Skills. There are also additional options of one to one tutoring and therapy sessions. We aim to cater for every child’s interests and learning style at FLS, and we are always open to new ideas of sessions to be delivered.
We value nurture and well-being above all else, and our Key Teachers and Directors provide exceptional pastoral care through highly effective communication between all team members and parents.
