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What is Forest School?

Forest School is the name for an approach to educating children in the outdoors on a regular basis. This work will support the main curriculum and will have a strong emphasis on raising all children’s self-esteem, independence and mental wellbeing.

Forest schools originated in Sweden during the 1950s and was a way of teaching children about the natural world. The idea was adopted by Denmark as an important part of Early Years provision. The concept was introduced to Britain in 1995 by Bridgwater College and is being developed all over the country.

During these sessions, children experience all sorts of woodland activities that help them to build an understanding and appreciation of the woodland as well as learn together in a totally unique way. The activities are always hands-on and may require the use of a range of tools and will include team building skills, fire lighting, den building and using tools, as well as lots of discovery and explore. The sessions will also allow time for peer mentoring and for the children to reflect on their experiences at Forest School.

Please ensure that your child wears the appropriate kit to school on the days they have Forest School sessions, they will also need to bring some wellies or spare outdoor shoes in a labelled bag and a spare pair of socks. 

The whole session will be spent outdoors whatever the weather - so appropriate clothing is essential. The only time that we will not be working outdoors is in excessive high winds or thunder storms. Please be aware that children may get muddy during these sessions so for their own comfort it is important that they are wearing appropriate clothing. 

  • Outdoor boots or wellies
  • Socks
  • Long trousers
  • Long sleeved top
  • Warm jumper/zip up hoodie
  • Waterproof jacket & trousers 
  • Hat/gloves (in Winter Forest School sessions)
  • Sun hat (in Summer Forest School sessions)

From September 2022 Forest School sessions will be every Tuesday for all children in Reception/Year 1/Year 2