Forest School is a child-centred inspirational learning process that offers opportunities for holistic growth through regular sessions. It is a long-term programme that supports play, exploration and supported risk taking. It develops confidence and self-esteem through learner inspired, hands-on experiences in a natural setting.
We are extremely lucky to be situated in 56 acres of natural woodland, allowing us to have 2 Forest School sites, which are run by our two Level 3 qualified Forest School Leaders.
During Forest School sessions, pupils work on independence skills, communication and team building. They learn to use Forest School tools such as palm drills, bill hooks and bow saws, and at least one session per term involves building camp fires and using Kelly kettles. Pupils also learn about the environment around them, identifying trees, fungi and mini beasts and enjoying the freedom and benefits of outdoor learning whilst having lots of fun.
Our longer term plan is to work towards the John Muir Award, which is a nationally recognised award encouraging people of all backgrounds to connect with, enjoy and care for wild places. Participants learn about the special attributes of wild places and the award helps them:
Discover: Keep a nature journal with sketches and notes. Following trails made of natural materials leading to the working area, with pupils setting their own boundaries. Participating in games and sensory-based activities such as predator and prey, hide and seek, Among Us (outdoors edition), and nature bingo. Blindfolded tree recognition activities and other sensory games using smell, touch, and sight. Creating sound maps and “sit spot” reflection sessions to encourage mindfulness and deeper observation. Crafting with natural materials, such as making pendants, fairies and their homes, or wooden pencils, to be shared back at school or with families. Constructing a map or model of the camp area to consolidate their exploration and understanding.
Explore: Create a biodiversity map of the school grounds Explore nearby parks, rivers, or reserves on field trips Compare habitats (garden, playground, pond, etc.) Conduct simple soil or water quality tests Record different plant and animal species in the schoolyard Collect data on recycling and waste in the school Measure weather patterns (temperature, rainfall, wind).
Conserve: Litter picking around school grounds or wild areas using child-safe tools and gloves. Filling bird feeders and water trays to help care for local wildlife. Plant native trees, flowers, or a pollinator garden. Planting bulbs, flowers, or small shrubs to attract bees and butterflies. Creating mini bug hotels or hedgehog shelters using natural materials such as leaves, twigs, and bark. Collecting natural materials to make wildlife art or small habitat structures. Helping to water and care for plants in designated outdoor areas. Sorting natural and man-made materials to learn about recycling and caring for the environment. Start a recycling or composting program in school. Organise a “Plastic-Free Week” challenge. Making simple posters or signs to remind others to look after wild areas and keep them clean. Using “kind to nature” rules in all activities (for example, leaving no trace, reusing materials, and being gentle with plants and creatures).
Share: Work taken home for pupils to share their experiences of wild places with their families and friends, helping to strengthen community connections. Participants will also contribute updates and reflections for inclusion in the weekly school newsletter, allowing them to share progress with the wider school community. In addition, pupils will take part in a Show and Tell session during assembly and give presentations to their class teachers, showcasing what they have learned and created through their Award activities Discover, Explore, Conserve and Share with others their experience of wild places.
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