What is Forest School?

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Forest School is a unique way of building independence, self-esteem, and a positive attitude towards learning in children and young people as they explore and experience the natural world for themselves.

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Because forest school learning is child-directed, the scope of the activities that can take place is enormous. Typical activities include:

• Sensory walks
• Foraging
• Shelter building
• Mini beast hunts
• Tree climbing
• Campfire cooking
• Woodwork
• Nature art
• Games like Hide and Seek
• Fire building and lighting
• Puddle and mud jumping.

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The idea of letting tiny children experiment with knives and fire might sound scary, but safety is paramount during forest school sessions.

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All leaders have to have a Level 3 Forest School qualification, which covers essential safety training such as risk assessment and food hygiene.

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Although children are encouraged to assess risk for themselves, this is always with close adult guidance. Staffing levels are high, too: for some activities, children are supervised one-to-one.

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Generally, children will need sturdy boots (waterproof walking boots are better than wellies), a hat, waterproof jacket and trousers or an all-in-one suit, waterproof gloves, and layers of clothing – possibly thermals for winter plus spare socks.

What are the benefits to the children’s learning and development?

 

• Physical health  

• Social skills

• Confidence and self-esteem

• Motivation and concentration

• Improves behaviour

• Risk awareness and self-management

• Increased knowledge and understanding of the world with better connection with and respect for their environment

• Can enhance classroom learning

 

When does Forest School take place?

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Each class will be timetabled for sessions throughout the year. Parents will be sent a letter to inform them of their child’s session.