What is Forest School?

Forest School is an inspirational long-term process that offers children and young people regular outdoor experiences, throughout the seasons, and in all weathers. Forest School aims to increase the skills and knowledge of pupils through a child centred, holistic approach.

Forest School education is more than a single subject – it encompasses a vast range of topics and skill sets which are designed to promote independence and self-esteem. The beautiful surroundings and relaxed atmosphere bring new life to learning, as well as a better understanding of the environment and a healthy respect for God’s natural world.

What are the benefits of forest school learning?

• Improved confidence and self-esteem through setting small, achievable steps.
• An active participation in the direction of an individual’s own Forest School journey makes experiences relevant to participants, keeping them emotionally involved and thus routing learning more deeply.
• Acquisition of lifelong learning skills such as resilience, resourcefulness, reciprocity
  and reflection.
• Development of language and communication skills in a real context.
• A better understanding of personal limits through the exposure to and negotiation of
  risk.
• Tuning of gross and fine motor skills through physical play.
• Creation of a cohesive social group through shared experiences and team work.
• The natural environment provides a stimulating environment full of sensory diversity.

You can see some images from our time spent in the forest this year here...