Foraging and folklore in the Forest

The summer term is a wonderful time for Forest School. The woods are alive with new life and the children are always amazed at just how fast and furiously the greenery grows!

This term, the children celebrated May Day, marking the start of summer with a spot of Morris dancing and listening to a story about the Green Man, protector of the woods and forests. Drawing inspiration from the story, the children created some fabulous tree art and made forest garlands. The perfect start to summer! During Mental Health Awareness Week the children also made full use of our wonderful outdoor space and woodlands.

Forest Fact...

The smell of the woodland (phytoncides) can boost your nervous system, mood and sleep? It certainly works for us!

Year 3 children thought about mindfulness. They discussed how everyone is different by using flowers as examples. We’re feeling calm and content just looking at this photo! As the older children spent time practising mindfulness, some of the younger children created an amazing, collaborative piece of artwork using natural paintbrushes which they hung up in the woods for everyone to enjoy.

During Toy Making Week, pupils learnt how to use a bow saw to cut rounds of Hazel, (or ‘wood cookies’ as the children called them!) which they shaped, painted and transformed into colourful games and toys. Others made working bows and arrows for some woodland target practice.

As we know there’s a lot more to Forest School at Claremont than den building and making mud slides. This term, the children also spent time learning all about what the forest can provide and how humans have used these provisions for centuries. Lavender, marigolds, dandelions, chamomile and the Elder tree all became magic ingredients in the outdoor larder as the children rustled up some elderflower cordial and curd, dandelion honey and garlic bread!

Another great term of discovery out in the forest!