We are very committed to being a school offering Forest School to as many pupils as possible. We offer, as standard, sessions to Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 on our specific Forest School Site, near the West Reservoir. KS2 classes also have the opportunity to take part in Forest Schools over the year and linked to curriculum learning.

 Forest School is a unique, nature-based learning experience that connects children with the natural world and supports their holistic development. Led by trained practitioners, our sessions encourage exploration and discovery in a supportive outdoor environment, fostering a love for nature and meaningful personal growth.

  Why Forest School?

 Forest School offers a wide range of benefits for children, helping them grow in confidence, resilience, and empathy while enhancing their physical and mental wellbeing. Through hands-on experiences, children learn to understand and appreciate the natural world, develop social skills, and gain independence in a nurturing, learner-led environment.

Forest Schools aims to develop:

• Self Awareness
• Self Regulation
• Intrinsic motivation
• Empathy
• Good social communication skills
• Independence
• A positive mental attitude, self-esteem and confidence

Key Benefits of Forest School:

• Builds Confidence: Children gain a sense of achievement and independence through self-directed activities.
• Develops Resilience: Outdoor challenges teach children to adapt and persevere.
• Supports Physical Wellbeing: Active play in nature promotes motor skill development and overall fitness.
• Fosters Empathy and Connection: Collaborative tasks help children develop social awareness and empathy.
• Encourages Curiosity about Nature: Hands-on interaction with the environment deepens understanding of ecosystems and biodiversity.

What Happens During a Forest School Session?

 Each Forest School session is carefully planned to balance structure with flexibility, allowing children to pursue their interests and set their own goals. Here’s what a typical day might look like:

 Gathering and Goal-Setting: 

We start by gathering outside the woodland, where children share their feelings and set intentions for the day. This helps each child feel included and prepares them to explore with purpose.

 Exploration and Activities: 

Once in the forest, children have the freedom to engage with the natural surroundings. Leaders introduce new ideas, such as building shelters, identifying plants, or creating art from natural materials, but the children take the lead in deciding what interests them most.

 Learning Through Play and Challenge: 

As they play, children encounter challenges that require them to think creatively, work together, and take safe risks. Whether it’s climbing a tree or balancing on logs, these activities promote growth in areas like communication, problem-solving, and emotional regulation.

 Reflection and Closing: 

At the end of each session, we come together for a group reflection, allowing children to share their experiences and celebrate their achievements. This quiet time for sharing helps children process their learning and recognize the personal progress they’ve made.

  Our Approach

 We believe that each child’s unique needs and potential are best supported in a compassionate, inclusive environment. Forest School sessions are designed not only to be fun but also to nurture children’s social, emotional, and intellectual growth in a lasting way. We emphasize collaboration, respect for nature, and a positive attitude toward challenges, helping children build skills that will support them throughout life.

 By encouraging children to engage with nature in meaningful ways, Forest School helps them build a sense of belonging and a deep connection to the environment. We’re proud to provide a space where children can learn, grow, and develop lifelong skills while fostering a love for the world around them.

School Garden