Forest School programme builds confidence, skills and a love of learning outdoors

Outdoor learning continues to thrive at St Dominic’s School as pupils benefit from the wide‑ranging opportunities offered through Forest School sessions. The programme is helping to boost physical health, enhance mental wellbeing, and develop key skills such as teamwork, resilience and confidence.

Through hands‑on, nature‑based activities, pupils engage their senses, explore creatively and take part in problem‑solving.

A highlight for many pupils is learning how to safely and responsibly start a fire – a supervised activity that builds patience, concentration and risk‑management skills. Once fires are established, pupils love toasting marshmallows!

Forest School sessions also introduce the pupils to safe tool use. Under guidance, pupils learn how to use tools to create woodland crafts, from whittling to shelter building. These activities promote coordination, careful handling, and respect for both personal and peer safety.

When weather conditions make outdoor sessions impractical, the learning continues indoors through a range of nature‑inspired activities.

Whatever the weather, Forest School remains a cherished part of the curriculum at St Dominics – bringing adventure, creativity and valuable life skills to pupils across the school.