Forest Schools

Our Forest School

The forest school concept originated in Scandinavia and enables children to develop their confidence, self-esteem, independence & social skills during child led and curriculum linked activities in our own (on site) woodland setting.

Reception and Year 1/2 currently have 1 afternoon a week of Forest School, led by a qualified Forest School leader.

Activities:

Story telling & singing, using senses to explore, campfire cooking, den building, wild arts/crafts, wood crafts, site conservation & tool use (pen knife, bow saw & bill hook). These are just some of the experiences children will enjoy!

Principles of Forest School

  • Forest School is a long-term process of frequent and regular sessions in a woodland or natural environment, rather than a one-off visit. Planning, adaptation, observations and reviewing are integral elements of Forest School.
  • Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural wooded environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.
  • Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners
  • Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves. (FSA)

Our Forest School is run by a qualified Forest School practitioner who continuously maintains and develops their professional practice.

We can measure our Forest School achievements using our progressive plan which children can earn certificates when they have completed age appropriate activities for example-

EYFS - Identifying mini beasts, making an obstacle course

YEAR 1/2 - Recall fire safety rules, whittle safely

Forest School Kit List:
 
- T shirt/vest
- A long-sleeved top
- Woolly jumper/fleece
- Long trousers (warmer in winter, lighter in summer)
- 2 pairs of warm socks
- Wellies/Snow boots/Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket (for every session)
- Waterproof trousers (for every session)
- Warm hat
- Gloves (waterproof if possible)
- Sunhat
- Sun cream should be applied in sunny weather