Forest School

Forest School sessions have begun again so I thought it timely for a reminder as to what is needed for your child to take part in their session.

Children’s arms and legs must be covered and they must have a change of footwear.  School shoes are not appropriate.  Waterproof tops and bottoms that the children can just slip on top of their uniform are ideal as are wellies.  The children will be out in all weather and they will get wet and muddy!

If children do not have a change of footwear they won’t be able to attend their session.  Nor will they be able to take part if their arms and legs are bare.  They sit on logs, the ground is muddy and uneven, there are lots of plants that might scratch and nettles that might sting so appropriate clothing and footwear is necessary to keep them safe. 

 

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Forest School Sessions

Caterpillars/Ladybirds/Squirrels

13 February, 6 March, 20 March, 1 May, 15 May, 5 June, 19 June, 3 July

Hedgehogs/Owls 

27 February, 13 March, 24 April, 8 May, 22 May, 12 June, 26 June, 10 July.

Owls Forest School - December 2025

FOREST SCHOOL

What is forest school?

'Forest School is an inspirational process that offers children, young people and adults regular opportunities to achiee and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands-on learning experiences in a woodland environment' (Forest Education Initiative).

Forest Schools started in Scandinavia in the 1950s and is now a globally recognised educational enrichment activity teaching children about the natural world in a way that provides experiential learning outside of the classroom.  These learning experiences help to develop communication, confidence and practical skills, as well as a greater understanding of the environment.

 

Sessions are based on the principles of having a high adult/child ratio and regular visits to a suitable location with a professional Forest School Practitioner, who will plan activities based on the observed needs and interests of the children.  We are lucky to have the facility on our school grounds.

 

The sessions may involve:

 

  • Playing games
  • Setting of small achievable tasks, such as collecting natural materials and building shelters
  • Learning about fire and cooking on a fire
  • Basic woodland skills and simple tool use
  • Making craft items using natural materials such as stick men.

 

All activities are designed to boost self-confidence, raise self-esteem and improve fine/gross motor skills alongside developing practical and intellectual potential.

 

Health & Safety

A full risk assessment of the site, tools to be used and all activities has been carried out to ensure that the risks involved are properly managed, and participants are never exposed to undue safety risks.

 

What to bring

Sessions take place outside whatever the weather (except high winds), it is therefore important to provide your child with:

 

  • Comfortable boots/wellies which can get dirty,
  • Warm layers for the top of the body, depending on the weather, e.g.
    • Vest
    • Shirt
    • Fleece/sweatshirt/jumper
    • Jacket/waterprof coat
  • Gloves
  • Scarf
  • Waterproof trousers
  • Hat (warm or sun, depending on the weather)
  • Clothes you do not mind getting dirty, which also fully covers legs and arms.