Cornholme Running Wild was created by a small group of local women passionate about getting active in nature and sharing that experience with local children and adults. The idea grew from a need identified by Calder Community Cares, a local charitable organization, to provide more opportunities for low-income families in the area to engage with the outdoors.
Lionesses of the Valley take the lead
With investment through the Active Calderdale community led approach, three dedicated members of the women’s support group, Lionesses of the Valley, trained to become Forest School Leaders, marking the beginning of Cornholme Running Wild.
Launched in May 2024, the group runs Healthy Holidays family forest school sessions in the woodlands around Cornholme and Portsmouth during school breaks. During the school term, they hold weekly Saturday sessions from 12 – 4 pm at The Old Library in Cornholme and nearby woodlands.
Connecting with nature
Forest School Leaders Bex, Joley, and Maxine aim to help people connect with nature. Cornholme’s vast woodlands and scenic trails provide the perfect setting for their activities, which include river walks, tree swings, campfires, and insect hunting. Participants also explore local history, like old burial grounds and ancient rock carvings, and engage in nature-based arts and crafts like leaf printing and making bird feeders. The sessions have been a hit, with up to 18 children and their families attending.
“The chance to create Cornholme Running Wild comes from my passion for nature and helping both children and adults connect with it. I also want to run forest school just for adults.”
Bex - Cornholme Running Wild
“I wanted to get kids out of the house and into the woods instead of playing video games all day. When we were kids, we were always playing outside. Being outdoors helps them learn about nature and makes them tired by the end of the day. I love being outside and getting muddy.”
Joley - Cornholme Running Wild
“This is just me. It’s given me such a good relationship with all the kids. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without Calder Community Cares, who handled all the complicated background stuff. It’s given me confidence and professionalism. For some children from difficult backgrounds, it’s been emotional. Nature is healing—it makes them happier, and it helps me too.”
Maxine - Cornholme Running Wild
The Healthy Holidays program also includes a nutritious meal at The Old Library, a cosy community hub in the village. The wider Lionesses group helps prepare healthy meals, ensuring the children and adults are well-fed and energised for their outdoor adventures.
“We planned a menu to make sure the children get healthy food with carbs, protein, vegetables, and a filling pudding. We even prepare Halal and dairy-free options. I’ve also added snack bags for their walks. Happy children with full bellies!”
Sue - Cornholme Running Wild's Cook
Providing new experiences
Some children attending Cornholme Running Wild had never experienced the outdoors before. One five-year-old girl, whose parents have disabilities and limited mobility, was initially nervous and needed help from the leaders. Now, she climbs hills and trees with confidence, and her dad has signed her up for the entire summer.
“I like it. It’s fun, playing out in the woods.”
Frankie - Attendee aged 7
“I love the activities—building tree swings and making crafts from things we find. I recommend going to forest school. It’s full of fun and adventures!”
Aaila - Attendee aged 9
