Forest School – learning by doing
Set in enclosed natural woodland within school grounds, our Forest School helps children develop a variety of life skills including independence, competence, cooperation and communication. Forest School also increases children’s understanding of the natural world and enables them to learn about risk taking within a safe environment.
Alongside the structured activities the children are given the freedom to explore their woodland setting at will and pursue their own interests. Once regular routines and safety rules are established, the children participate in more challenging activities such as using tools and helping to light and maintain the campfire for warmth and cooking.
Below we give a brief sample of a typical year in Forest School:
Nursery children enjoy a variety of creative and exploratory activities that also introduce an awareness of environmental issues.
Reception learn to identify and classify woodland trees and plants, and are introduced to the safe use of tools.
Year One participate in design and technology tasks incorporating woodland resources. They then practice safe campfire behavior before collecting fuel and helping to light the fire. Children can then enjoy hot chocolate and toasted food around the campfire!
Year Two learn about tree biology and the elements needed for a healthy forest, find out about medicinal plants and use woodland resources to create an obstacle course. They also investigate tension and put this into practice through the construction of group shelters using ropes.
