Introduction

Forest school is an outdoor learning experience which supports pupils with their well being, self-esteem and social skills. The open and free environment fosters the development of children’s natural intelligence and provides activities which enable them to problem solve and ask questions; improving their resilience and concentration skills.

The ethos of Forest Schools is to allow children the time and space to develop skills, interest and understanding through a range of activities which provide practical, hands-on experiences in a natural environment. Here at Sunnybank small groups of children across Key Stage one and Key stage Two access a six week program of Forest school activities.

The Forest School sessions encourage children to grow in confidence and boosts self esteem, giving children the opportunity to flourish in a small group which has a positive impact on mental health and emotional well-being. 

Please see the link to Nature detectives which is full of ideas and activities which will encourage your children to develop a love for the outdoors. 

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/naturedetectives/

Forest school Involves:

• Child initiated learning;

• Being outdoors

• Integration with the National Curriculum

• Delivery by a trained leader (Level 3) 

• Fun

Forest School helps to develop:

• Confidence and self-esteem;

• Communication and social skills

• Physical skills

• Greater understanding and awareness of the natural environment

• Natural motivation and a positive attitude to learning

• The ability to recognise and manage risk

• Healthier lifestyles.

Forest School Aims:

• To provide an opportunity for individuals to develop, to learn and to enjoy themselves.

• To provide a safe and non-threatening environment in which children can take risks, make choices and initiate their own learning.

• To help children understand, appreciate and care for the natural environment.

• To provide ways of developing practical life skills in an outdoor environment.

• To develop self-esteem, confidence and a positive disposition to learning through the completion of small, achievable tasks.

• To meet the needs of children with all learning styles

• To develop social and team working skills

• To enable children to be independent, self-motivated and considerate.

• To be true to the forest school ethos and approach

• To develop a secure, happy and welcoming environment.

• To provide stimulation and varied learning activities appropriate to the child’s needs and stages of development.

• To help each child build self-esteem, confidence, independence and self-control and interpersonal skills.

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