A 'forest school' in Hounslow, where children learn by exploring the outdoors, has won a national accreditation.

Nature Links, based in Crane Park, Whitton - on the borders of Hounslow and Richmond boroughs - lets children learn about nature through practical activities like building shelters and tracking down wildlife.

Running during term time and holidays, it gives children the freedom to play as they want and to take risks in a safe environment, helping their creativity blossom.

It has been awarded 'Play Champion' status by the Save Childhood Movement, which campaigns for youngsters to be allowed to grow up unencumbered by the pressures and intrusions of modern day life.

To celebrate the achievement and National Children's Day UK, which takes place on Sunday (May 17), Nature Links is inviting families to attend a special version of its regular pop-up stay and play sessions in Crane Park on Tuesday (May 12) for half the usual price.

Nature Links founder Heidi Magill said: "National Children's Day is the perfect opportunity for children and their parents to get outside, enjoy the fresh air and discover the great outdoors.

"We are on a mission to get as many children and families as possible to use local parks and spaces and love nature as much as we do.

"Everyday is an adventure and we want to encourage more children to experience the fun of learning through play in an outdoor space. Being awarded Play Champion status is so exciting for us."

Nature Links was set up in 2014 and works in partnership with Hounslow Council and the council's leisure contractor Carillion, using allocated spaces in parks across the area to provide an outdoor learning space for children.

Its regular forest school sessions in Crane Park, aimed at three to five-year-olds, take place every Tuesday from 10am to midday. Each session costs £12.50 per child, including snacks and drinks.

Nature Links also runs pop up play sessions in the park for two to five-year-olds every Tuesday, from 1.15pm-2.45pm, priced £10 per child.

The May 12 session will cost £5 per child. To book a place, visit www.naturelinks.co.uk or email heidi@naturelinks.co.uk.