Forest School
Forest School encourages and inspires children to experience a variety of opportunities in our outdoor environment. Working with nature first hand, learning new skills, encourages children to work as a team whilst building their own self esteem. Every year group benefits from this opportunity for part of the academic year.
Forest School: Learning Beyond the Classroom
Forest School is an inspiring approach to learning that takes children beyond the classroom and into the natural world. Set in our woodland outdoor environment at the bottom of the field, Forest School offers the children regular opportunities to explore, play, learn and grow through hands‑on experiences in nature.
What Is Forest School?
Forest School is a child‑centred programme that supports holistic development through outdoor, experiential learning. Sessions are led by trained practitioners and take place in all seasons, encouraging children to build a meaningful connection with the natural environment. Activities are guided by children’s interests and curiosity, allowing learning to unfold naturally rather than following a rigid structure.
How Forest School Benefits Children
Forest School supports children’s development in many powerful ways:
Confidence and Independence
Children are encouraged to take appropriate risks, make choices, and try new experiences. This builds self‑esteem, resilience and confidence as they learn what they are capable of achieving.
Social and Communication Skills
Working together to build dens, solve problems, or explore nature helps children develop teamwork, turn‑taking and communication skills. Forest School nurtures positive relationships with both peers and adults.
Emotional Wellbeing
Time spent outdoors has a calming effect on children. Forest School gives them space to express emotions, manage feelings, and develop perseverance in a supportive, low‑pressure environment.
Physical Development
Climbing, balancing, walking on uneven ground, and using tools all help to improve coordination, strength and fine and gross motor skills—often without children even realising they are “exercising”.
Curiosity and Love of Learning
Forest School sparks children’s natural curiosity. Whether investigating minibeasts, observing the seasons, or experimenting with natural materials, children develop a deep, meaningful love of learning through real‑life experiences.
Learning Through Nature
Forest School supports many areas of learning, including problem‑solving, early science, literacy and numeracy, creativity, and environmental awareness. Children learn to care for nature, understand their impact on the environment, and develop respect for living things—skills and values that stay with them for life.
Forest School Kit
A well‑prepared Forest School kit ensures sessions are safe, flexible, and responsive to children’s interests while supporting play. Please send in the following on your child’s Forest School Day.
1. Clothing & Personal Equipment
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Warm layers (fleece/jumper)
- Hat, gloves, and spare socks (season‑dependent)
- Sturdy footwear (wellies or walking boots)
- Spare clothing in a named waterproof bag
- Sun hat and sunscreen (warm weather)