Welcome to Forest School
Forest School has been developed from the Scandinavian education system. It encourages children to build their self-esteem and independence through exploring and experiencing the natural world. Each session combines woodland activities and teambuilding games. The children are set up for a successful experience which leads to increased self-confidence. Each Forest School session is tailored for all learning styles in order to meet the needs of the individual children.
The ethos of Forest School allows learners the time and space to develop skills, interests and understanding through practical, hands-on experiences. Children are encouraged and supported in recognising and managing risk for themselves, through real life situations and experiences. It also allows practitioners to step back and observe the children in order to see the children’s interests and how best to develop their learning.
Forest School at St. Peter’s is within the school grounds. Part of the school field has been designated as a Forest School site. Our site has been thoroughly risk assessed ensuring current health and safety guidelines are being followed.
Sessions are planned around the individual’s and group’s needs, and built upon each week. All Forest School Leaders are qualified through nationally recognised and accredited training, therefore ensuring Forest School is a high quality learning experience. The earlier sessions will concentrate on safety, establishing boundaries and routines. As the children develop in confidence and familiarity with the environment the sessions focus on the development and consolidation of skills and understanding.
Possible activities many include:
- Learning about their woodland e.g. identifying the trees and flowers
- Natural crafts – collages from natural materials, weaving with long grasses
- Using sense to explore materials in the woodland
- Hunting for mini beasts
- Mud painting
- Shelter building and knot tying
- Tree climbing
- Using tools for a purpose
- Fire building and cooking on a camp fire