"The best classroom and the richest cupboard is roofed only by the sky” 

 Margaret McMillan

Forest School – which started in Scandinavia – is all about enabling children to explore and experience the natural world through hands-on activities outdoors. The concept has proven to develop the self-esteem and confidence of pre-school children through activities that involve creativity, working together and child-led learning.

What are the benefits of Forest School?

As children explore the natural habitat, they become more in harmony with nature, bringing a sense of belonging and contentment. The core philosophy of Steiner and Froebel is the belief that nature, the rhythms of the earth and the cycles of life are essential for spiritual and physical growth.

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Forest School is also a place to assess risk in a safe environment. This challenging play helps develop self-confidence, competence, emotional resilience and a sense of independence. Without risk and challenge, children are at risk of losing their sense of aspiration and ambition.

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Activities will include:

• Exploring the woodland and making dens

• Getting messy and creative using natural material

• Planting and cultivating crops

• Balancing on slack lines

• Learning about fire safety through cooking on the fire

• Learning about insects, animals, plants and trees

• Working as a team and learning problem-solving skills through making dens and structures

• Learning about boundaries and risk assessment

• Learning about the natural environment and how their actions impact upon it

• Learning the safe use of tools, such as bow saws, knives and drills

Read more about Forest Schools

The school grounds:

Our School has the benefit of very large grounds which were transformed into an environment suitable for a wide range of outdoor learning activities. Within the grounds is a treehouse with two pods capable of accommodating 15 pupils. A woodland trail, peace garden, willow dome and outdoor musical instruments.