Forest School
Forest School Vision
To enable every pupil to have the opportunity to develop an inquisitive and positive relationship with the natural world. Increasing confidence, self-esteem and respect in preparation for an ever-changing world, and providing a holistic approach to learning through opportunities for challenge, risk-taking, and social development.
Forest School Aims
- To provide an opportunity for individuals to develop their character, resilience, confidence and independence.
- To provide a safe and non-threatening environment in which children can take risks, make choices and initiate their own learning.
- To help children understand, appreciate and care for the natural environment.
- To provide a learning environment that promotes mental and physical wellbeing.
- To provide an environment that promotes spiritual awareness and creative thinking.
- To provide ways of developing practical life skills in an outdoor environment.
- To develop a positive disposition to learning through the completion of small, achievable tasks.
- To provide opportunities to develop team working skills.
- To enable children to be independent, self-motivated and considerate.
- To help each child build self-control and interpersonal skills.
All year groups have Forest School timetabled as an essential part of their curriculum – Reception attend daily; Year 1 & 2 have a regular weekly session, however outdoor learning takes place daily; Year 3 & 4 attend weekly; and Year 5 & 6 attend fortnightly. Sessions are led by the Class Teachers and our qualified Forest School Leads: Mrs Ellen Nilsen-Grahame, Mrs Emma Trimmer and Miss Sarah Porter.
Forest School/Outdoor Learning clothes should be kept in school all week for Reception & Year 1. Years 2-6 should keep their basic Forest School clothes in school all week for Outdoor Learning (Wellies and Waterproof) and bring their old trousers/fleece/warm clothing in on the correct day for Forest School. Children will learn in a variety of weathers and in all seasons; this is all part of the Forest School philosophy.
