Forest School
We are very lucky to have Sophie and Jackie who are both training to complete their Level 3 Forest School qualification
The roots of Forest school re that it is a Forest School is an inspirational process of learning in a natural environment that develops confidence and self-esteem in the very young to the very not so young.
Our Forest school is based on learning through natural discovery
Forest school learning is very hands on natural way of learning in the great outdoors. We run two sessions a week for the Sun and Moon groups who take turns through their year with us. We used to have an external Forest School leader come to run the sessions and could only afford 6 sessions for each group so being able to have Forest School all year round is a huge benefit and fantastic for the children. We have built our own shelter with the support of The Outdoors group and this provide a wonderful respite from the worst of the weather while also allowing us to feel that we are truly outside at all times
Forest School allows children to evaluate risk which is a very useful tool as they move into adulthood, they can explore freely, and challenge themselves.
It gives every child the chance to discover and build positive relationships.
Key Areas and attributes of Forest School Learning
All children are
- equal, unique, and valuable
- competent to explore & discover
- entitled to experience appropriate risk and challenge
- entitled to choose, and to initiate and drive their own learning and development
- entitled to experience regular success
- entitled to develop positive relationships with themselves and other people
- entitled to develop a strong, positive relationship with their natural world
The sessions also promote physical exercise and stamina, supporting skills needed for school life. The experience leads to healthier lifestyles with a love of playing outside and exploring. Children gain confidence, problem solving skills, friendship, and collaborative play.
Forest School for us helps to promote a love of learning outside, it supports emotional wellbeing and self-esteem and we see a significant rise in self-esteem when children access our Forest School. They feel special and responsible, and they love it.
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