A Warm Welc me
Welcome to Little Crickets Forest School, an impressive outdoor day nursery for children aged 2 to rising 5. Whilst you can gain a brief knowledge of our Forest School from this brochure, we would always encourage you to visit. We love to welcome visitors to our Forest School - please contact us to arrange an appointment.
We put the children first in all we do and strive to provide the very best possible education for each individual. Our dedicated and experienced staff work hard to ensure that we continuously provide a caring, supportive and safe place for children to learn. A child’s early years are such an important time in their development, so we aim to make their introduction to Forest School a happy and constructive one.
We work closely with parents to jointly nurture every child’s natural thirst for learning. We are always keen to listen and support you in your child’s development, wherever possible operating an ‘Open Door’ policy welcoming contributions from home.
We see our Forest School as a partnership between children, staff and parents working together to build a positive future. It is our aim to ensure all children achieve their full potential during their time at Little Crickets Forest School.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Forest School in person soon.
Our Forest Sch ol Manager
With over a decade of experience of working with children, our Forest School is managed by Abbie Reynolds. Abbie is a Level 3 Forest School Leader and is so passionate about the great outdoors that she is working towards her Level 4 Forest School and Outdoor Learner’s qualification, meaning that she can share her enthusiasm by training others.
We’re thrilled to have Abbie at the helm of our Forest School; there is nothing that Abbie enjoys more than watching children in her care grow in confidence, self-esteem and resilience through outdoor exploration. She loves creating learning adventures using the natural resources around the Forest School and is a firm believer in the philosophy that there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing! Rain or shine, Abbie’s Forest School sessions are jam-packed with opportunities to explore the wonder of the natural world, and in her spare time, Abbie can be found outdoors walking her dog or strolling along the beach.
To ensure best practice we follow the Forest School principles
In Nature
Long Term
Trained Leaders
Forest School Principles
Learner
Led
Holistic
Risk Taking
ur Aims
Nature Connection: At Little Crickets Forest School, we aim to facilitate a connection between children and the natural world. Through immersive experiences in outdoor environments, we seek to instil in children a sense of wonder and respect for the environment.
Holistic Development: We are committed to nurturing the holistic development of every child. Our sessions are designed to foster physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth, providing a foundation for lifelong learning and well-being.
Child-Led Learning: We believe in the power of child-led learning. By following children’s interests, passions, and curiosities, we empower them to take ownership of their learning journey, fostering independence, creativity, and a love for exploration.
Experimental Learning: Learning at Little Crickets Forest School is hands-on, experimental, and immersive. Through meaningful experiences in nature, children develop a deep understanding of concepts, skills, and values, laying the groundwork for authentic learning and personal growth.
Community Building: We place a strong emphasis on building a supportive and inclusive community at Forest School. Through collaborative activities, shared experiences, and a culture of respect and empathy, we cultivate a sense of belonging and connection among children, educators, families, and the wider community.
ur Facilities
Little Crickets Forest School is a safe haven within a private, secure area surrounded by nature, fostering an environment where children can explore, learn, and play freely while ensuring their safety and security. Our dedicated outdoor spaces have been exclusively designed for various learning activities, ensuring a controlled and protected environment. We prioritise the comfort and well-being of every child, especially during the colder months. That’s why we have a cozy yurt, where little ones can warm up and recharge before heading back out into the great outdoors. Our yurt provides a welcoming and snug haven where children can take a break from outdoor adventures and enjoy some indoor comfort. Equipped with toasty blankets and soft cushions, it is a warm and inviting space for children to relax, socialise, and refuel their energy levels.
What’s more, our purpose-built climbing apparatus is made of natural materials and is specifically designed for the development of motor skills. Balance beams and stepping stumps encourage children to take risks in a controlled environment.
odFNourishing Meals for Growing Minds and Bodies
At Little Crickets Forest School, we recognise that parents have enough to worry about without adding meal preparation to the list. That’s why we’re here to lend a helping hand by providing wholesome and delicious meals throughout the day, so you can rest assured that your children are well-fed and nourished during their Forest School adventures.
We believe that proper nutrition is essential for children to thrive and flourish, which is why we’re committed to serving meals that are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients to support their growth and development. Our meals are freshly cooked using wholesome ingredients, with a focus on seasonal produce and balanced nutrition.
Children enjoy eating their meals together in the yurt, learning to use cutlery and vital socialisation skills. Equity, and embracing individual differences enriches the learning experience for all.
The Early Years Curriculum
At Little Crickets Forest School, we provide a rich and holistic learning experience that nurtures every aspect of a child’s development. Learning follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework with its seven core areas of learning and development:
1. Communication and Language: Through outdoor exploration, storytelling, and group discussions, we encourage children to develop their communication skills, express their thoughts and ideas, and engage with the world around them through language.
2. Physical Development: Little Crickets Forest School offers plenty of opportunities for children to engage in physical activities such as climbing, running, and exploring nature, which promote gross and fine motor skills development, coordination, and spatial awareness.
3. Personal, Social, and Emotional Development: Through collaborative activities, team-building exercises, and opportunities for self-reflection, we support children in developing their social skills, emotional resilience, and self-confidence, fostering positive relationships and a strong sense of self.
4. Literacy: From storytelling sessions under the canopy of trees to journaling about their outdoor adventures in their learning journals, we inspire a love for literacy and language in children, laying the foundation for reading, writing, and communication skills development.
5. Mathematics: Nature provides endless opportunities for mathematical exploration and discovery. Whether it’s counting the rings on a tree stump, measuring the height of a plant, or exploring patterns in the natural world, we incorporate mathematical concepts into outdoor play and learning.
6. Understanding the World: At our Forest School, children have the chance to explore and make sense of the world around them through handson experiences in nature. From identifying different plant and animal species to learning about the changing seasons and weather patterns, we ignite children’s curiosity and understanding of the world we live in.
7. Expressive Arts and Design: Nature is the ultimate canvas for creativity and self-expression. Through art, music, and imaginative play in the forest, children can unleash their creativity, experiment with different materials, and express themselves in unique and meaningful ways.
By integrating the 7 areas of learning into our Forest School curriculum, we ensure that each child receives a comprehensive and balanced education that supports their growth, development, and well-being. From fostering communication skills to promoting physical activity, creativity, and a love for learning, our Forest School provides the perfect environment for children to thrive and flourish.
All-Weather Provisi n
At Little Crickets Forest School, we believe that nature is not just for fair-weather days - it’s an all-encompassing classroom that offers endless opportunities for learning and exploration regardless of the weather. That’s why we’re committed to providing all-weather provision that ensures children can connect with the natural world in rain, shine, or snow.
Here’s how we embrace all weathers at our Forest School:
1. Outdoor Gear: We ask parents to equip children with the appropriate outdoor gear to keep them warm, dry, and comfortable in any weather conditions. From waterproof jackets and trousers to sturdy boots and hats, ensure that children are dressed for success, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in outdoor adventures no matter the weather.
2. Sheltered Areas: We have designated sheltered areas within our Forest School where children can take shelter during bad weather. These spaces provide a respite from the elements while still allowing children to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of nature.
3. Rainy Day Activities: Rainy days are opportunities for discovery and fun at our Forest School. We embrace the rain by engaging children in a variety of rain-themed activities
such as puddle jumping, cloud watching, and creating rain art. Children learn to appreciate the beauty and importance of rain while staying active and engaged outdoors.
4. Snowy/Icy Adventures: When winter blankets cover the Forest School in snow, we celebrate with snowy adventures and outdoor play. Children can look at frost, build snowmen and make snow angels, fostering a sense of wonder and excitement about the changing seasons.
5. Nature’s Classroom: Regardless of the weather, nature provides a rich and dynamic learning environment that stimulates the senses and sparks curiosity. Children learn about the natural world through hands-on experiences, observation, and exploration, developing a deep connection with their surroundings and an appreciation for the beauty and resilience of nature.
6. Safety First: While we encourage outdoor play in all weather conditions, safety is always our top priority. Our practitioners are trained to assess and manage risks associated with different weather conditions, ensuring that children can enjoy outdoor activities safely and responsibly.
There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing... so dress them well and they will have a blast!
Fees & Sessi ns
Children can join us from the age of 2, and we have nappy changing facilities on site should this be required. We ask that parents supply nappies and wipes in your child’s bag when they join us for the day.
Full day sessions run from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, all year round (with the exception of Christmas week). A full day session costs £75. We also offer half day sessions for £37.50, and these are either 8am to 1pm, or 1pm to 6pm. We offer funded places to children in our Forest School, and are registered with many companies that provide childcare vouchers as an alternative way to pay part of your fees. Please ask us for more information should these be of interest.
H liday Club
At Little Crickets Forest School Holiday Club, we believe that learning never stops, even when school’s out!
Our holiday club is a wonderful opportunity for children in Reception up to and including Year 4 to be immersed in nature in our magical outdoor setting. Our forest adventurers spend their days exploring, building dens, using tools, hunting for mini-beasts and creating works of forest art. We run, we climb, we balance and we laugh, thriving in spending time outdoors. Little Crickets approach is childled and play-based and we encourage children’s imaginations to run wild!
Whilst your child is with us during holiday club you can expect them to enjoy a wide range of activities, that will help build gross motor skills, practise their language, numeracy, and critical thinking, plus some wonderful sensory experiences such as;
• Building dens • Fire lighting • Open fire cooking
• Creating magic potions in the mud kitchen
• Constructing and climbing obstacle courses • Tool work • Crafts
• Mapping out bug hunts… and so much more!
We have wonderful staff who are trained to show our children how to safely engage in all forest school activities. Holiday Club days run from 8.00am to 5.00pm.
View dates and book your sessions on our website.
Next Steps
To help you decide if Forest School is right for your child, we warmly invite families to come and see the Forest School in action either via a personal tour or come along to one of our open events.
We regularly hold events for prospective children and their families. Visit the Little Crickets Forest School website to find out more and to book your visit: www.littlecricketsforestschool.co.uk/events
In addition, there is a wealth of information on our website, and the FAQ page is especially useful. Visit www.littlecricketsforestschool.co.uk/FAQ
Register
If you would like to take up a place for your child, we invite you to register them to secure their place by paying a non-refundable fee of £80. Copies of our registration form can be downloaded from our website. Please email it to admissions@littlecricketsforestschool.co.uk and one of our friendly team members will be in touch.
Get in T uch
We would love to hear from you and are very happy to answer any questions that you may have about our Forest School, activities or the curriculum.
Please email us at admissions@littlecricketsforestschool.co.uk or telephone us on 07393 518812 between 8am and 6pm.
Follow Us
Little Crickets Forest School
Little Crickets Forest School, Cavendish Road, Bournemouth BH1 1RB
Website www.littlecricketsforestschool.co.uk
Email admissions@littlecricketsforestschool.co.uk