FOREST SCHOOL

Our children benefit hugely from learning outdoors. In our forest school, children learn through first-hand experience and develop a broad range of skills such as perseverance, independence and responsibility.

The children’s initial interests and fascinations are explored through free play and games before introducing a variety of engaging activities. Stories around a campfire, bear hunts through the forest and making dens during forest school sessions are just some examples of our exceptional outdoor provision.

The acres of grounds behind the Pre-Prep and Nursery building are home to a whole host of wildlife. From deer, to fox cubs, to Chinese Mandarin ducks there is always something for the children to be excited by. Forest school sessions last two hours and take place weekly within the normal school day for Pre-Nursery, Nursery and Reception classes. Year 1 and Year 2 also have outdoor education sessions where there is an appropriate link to their classroom learning, for example, Year 2’s science topic of habitats.

Part of forest school is teaching children about risks and how to evaluate them. The children are introduced gradually to learning about adding fuel to a fire as well as how to cook and make drinks using it. Climbing trees and using tools helps the children work off steam while building a new skillset. Under careful supervision, and by allowing children to take these measured risks, we help to prepare them for making choices when they are older and teach them to be actively responsible for themselves, their choices and their actions. They are also encouraged to contribute towards the environment through school gardening activities.