Forest School is an opportunity for children to learn outdoors. Using the natural environment, they put into practice all of their in-class learning, and experiences to lead their own exploration and discovery. It is a holistic approach, focussing on all aspects of the children’s learning and development.

Children learn through first hand experiences, some of which will be designed by the adult, many come from the children. Furthering understanding, proving theories and team projects result in greater independence, self-esteem and mutual respect. The children’s health and safety is our main priority. Helping children to understand that their actions have an impact on others and encouraging them to assess the risks, gives them ownership and responsibility of their behaviour.

Why is Forest School Important?

We feel Forest Schools make a difference in the following ways:

Confidence: children had the freedom, time and space to learn and demonstrate independence

Social skills: children gained increased awareness of the consequences of their actions on peers through team activities such as sharing tools and participating in play

Communication: language development was prompted by the children’s sensory experiences

Motivation: the woodland tended to fascinate the children and they developed a keenness to participate and the ability to concentrate over longer periods of time

Physical skills: these improvements were characterised by the development of physical stamina and gross and fine motor skills

Knowledge and understanding: the children developed an interest in the natural surroundings and respect for the environment

Kit

For the children to get the most from their Forest School sessions they need to be in appropriate clothing in all weather conditions:

Walking boots, wellies or sturdy trainers

Socks

Long sleeved t-shirt - prevent potential stings, scrapes and too much sun

Long trousers

Waterproof jacket and over trousers

Small water bottle

Hat

Sun cream - please apply before school and we will encourage children to top up as appropriate

Different seasons call for different kit, in winter more layers will be needed. Forest School will not be cancelled due to rain unless accompanied by winds. Children WILL get muddy and wet, for some this may not come naturally. Please reassure your child that you won’t mind.

Should you have any difficulty sourcing kit or have any old spare kit you would like to donate, please get in touch.

Can You Help Us?

You can support us in many ways. The first and most important is talking about Forest School with your child at home. Ask them about their experiences, new skills and interests.

Donations.

We are looking for kind donations to build up our Forest School Resource Shed. If you can provide any of the following, we would be very grateful:

• Wooden spoons
• Pots and pans
• Potato peelers
• Old wellies
• Seeds or bulbs
• Old sheets, duvet covers
•  Old waterproof clothing or wellies.