Forest School
The ethos of Forest School is based on a fundamental respect for children and young people and for their capacity to instigate, test and maintain curiosity in the world around them. Children should be given the opportunity to play and to develop their skills, knowledge and understanding within the natural environment, in particular, a woodland or forest setting and to build their independence, self-esteem and confidence.
This can be achieved by encouraging them to experience and explore the vibrant reality of the natural world using a hands-on and often ‘creative’ approach using a range of senses. Through practice and learning, children are able to realise and appreciate all forms of nature and to enjoy a sense of freedom, space and peace that it offers and to encourage a sense of responsibility for natural conservation. Through practice, participation and engagement in various activities children are able to build on their experiences as well as their social interaction skills through the combination of independent and group led activities based on a holistic approach in order to achieve their full potential.
How does it help development?
• Confidence and self-esteem;
• Communication and social skills;
• Physical skills;
• Greater understanding and awareness of the natural environment;
• Natural motivation and a positive attitude to learning;
• The ability to recognise and manage risk;
• Healthier lifestyles.
Our Forest School Aims:
• To provide an opportunity for individuals to develop, to learn and to enjoy themselves.
• 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 ways of developing practical life skills in an outdoor environment.
• To develop self-esteem, confidence and a positive disposition to learning through the completion of small, achievable tasks.
• To meet the needs of children with all learning styles
• To develop social and team working skills
• To enable children to be independent, self-motivated and considerate.
• To be true to the forest school ethos and approach
• To develop a secure, happy and welcoming environment.
• To provide stimulation and varied learning activities appropriate to the child’s needs and stages of development.
• To help each child build self-esteem, confidence, independence and self-control and interpersonal skills.
Check out our Virtual Tour page to have a look around our purpose-built, beautiful Forest School.
"I can’t believe how much he talks about school, whenever I used to ask; he’d ignore me and go to his room"
— Parent / Carer
