Forest School at Junior King's, Canterbury

FOREST SCHOOL

We use our stunning grounds and special woodland for our Forest School, which combines elements of scouting, bushcraft, environmental awareness and experiential adventure activities to create a powerful learning tool.

Within our bespoke learning programme at Junior King’s, which has spanned the last ten years, we provide opportunities for the children to develop a wide variety of life skills such as independence, competence, co-operation and communication.

From a young age, our outdoor programme engenders a sense of respect and appreciation for our natural surroundings and an environmental ethic.

At Junior King’s, our own beautiful woodland site is in the heart of our school grounds and includes a nature trail and our forest park area. Our pupils benefit from the opportunities of outdoor learning to interact with the natural environment, to promote health, learning and emotional well-being. We run programmes throughout the school week. Pupils use a range of tools, play, learn, and develop selfconfidence, motivation and esteem.

The idea of Forest Schools originated in the 1950s in Scandinavia and we share its philosophy that nature is essential to a child’s overall development. Through positive outdoor learning experiences our specially trained staff seek to inspire every child. Activities are progressive in order to develop skills through practice.

Regular Activities in our Forest Schools programme: Pupils dress for the outdoor activities, share stories, and talk about the weather and the seasons. Our programme takes place all year round and in all weathers, except high winds.

On a regular basis, our pupils will: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Explore the natural woodland in our school Discover how to take risks, in a safe and structured setting Develop health and fitness in an outdoor setting Co-operate with others and use their initiative to solve problems Explore their thoughts, feelings and relationships Reflect on their understanding of the world and the environment through the use of their emotions, imagination and senses Build dens and shelters Study wildlife and our woodland environment Learn campfire building, lighting and safety Learn knots to help with construction activities Cook food on an open fire Practise using tools safely Play games and engage in physical activities Use trails and treasure hunts Develop their independence but also participate in teams, learning skills in communication and co-operation.

Become more resilient individuals Take part in creative woodland art and sculpture activities using natural materials