At Eye CE Primary School, the intent behind our Forest School provision is deeply rooted in offering a holistic approach to education. We aim to provide children with the opportunity to develop a strong connection to the natural world, fostering their curiosity, independence, and resilience. Our Forest School programme is designed to complement and enhance the national curriculum, offering a unique learning experience that promotes environmental awareness, teamwork, and personal growth.

We aim to create a safe and nurturing outdoor learning environment where children can explore, investigate, and engage with nature. Through regular sessions in the forest, we strive to instil a sense of environmental responsibility, encouraging children to become caretakers of the natural world. We believe that by immersing themselves in outdoor activities, children can develop essential life skills such as problem-solving, communication, and self-confidence.

Our school definition of Forest School

Forest School is learning in a natural setting to promote holistic development for all children through hands-on activities, play and environmental exploration.

How we do this

Our Key Areas of Skill Progression:

Boundaries, risk taking and safety

Shelter building

Using Tools & Equipment

Using the Fire Circle

Resilience & Confidence

The implementation of our Forest School programme is structured to provide a well-rounded educational experience for our students. We have trained and dedicated Forest School practitioners, including a full-time provision leader, who leads sessions that are carefully planned to align with the needs and interests of our children. Our approach is child-centred, allowing pupils to shape their learning journey through hands-on experiences and exploration.

During Forest School sessions, children engage in a range of activities such as den building, woodland crafts, natural art, and wildlife observation. These activities are designed to promote physical activity, creativity, and critical thinking. Our practitioners facilitate learning through open-ended questioning, encouraging children to reflect on their experiences and make connections to their wider learning.

We ensure that our Forest School provision is inclusive and accessible to all students, regardless of their background or abilities. By providing a supportive and nurturing environment, we aim to foster a sense of belonging and community amongst our pupils. Additionally, we integrate cross-curricular opportunities within our Forest School sessions, enabling children to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world context.

Outcomes

The impact of our Forest School provision is evident in the personal, social, spiritual and academic development of our students. Through participation in Forest School sessions, children demonstrate increased confidence, resilience, and emotional intelligence. They develop a deep appreciation for the natural world and show a heightened sense of environmental stewardship.

Academically, children who engage in our Forest School programme exhibit improved problem-solving skills, teamwork abilities, and motivation towards learning. They demonstrate a greater curiosity and enthusiasm for exploring new concepts, transferring their outdoor experiences to the classroom setting. Our data indicates that students who regularly participate in Forest School activities show progress in their personal growth and well-being.

Overall, the impact of our Forest School provision extends beyond the school environment, influencing children's relationships with nature, their peers, and their own sense of self. By nurturing a love for the outdoors and a respect for the environment, we aim to equip our students with the skills and values they need to become responsible citizens and lifelong learners.

Alignment with our vision and values

 

Our Forest School provision aligns closely with our school vision of living life in all its fullness, as expressed in John 10:10, by providing a holistic and immersive learning environment that nurtures the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of children's development.

 

Physical Development: Forest schools encourage outdoor play and exploration, which can promote physical fitness, coordination, and motor skill development. Children engage in activities like climbing trees, building forts, and hiking, which contribute to their overall well-being.

 

Emotional Well-being: Spending time in nature has been linked to reduced stress, anxiety, and depression. Forest schools provide a peaceful and natural setting where children can connect with the environment, regulate their emotions, and develop resilience.

 

Social Skills: Forest schools often involve collaborative activities and group projects that foster teamwork, communication, and cooperation. Children learn to negotiate, share resources, and solve problems together, building essential social skills that are vital for living a fulfilling life.

 

Spiritual Connection: Nature offers opportunities for reflection, awe, and wonder, which can deepen children's spiritual connection with the world around them. Through experiences like observing wildlife, listening to the sounds of the forest, and exploring natural beauty, children can develop a sense of gratitude, reverence, and interconnectedness.

 

Curiosity and Creativity: Forest schools emphasise inquiry-based learning and hands-on exploration, sparking children's curiosity and imagination. Whether it is discovering new plant species, experimenting with natural materials, or inventing games outdoors, children are encouraged to think creatively and develop a lifelong love for learning.

 

By integrating forest school practices into the curriculum, we create enriching experiences that resonate with the school's vision of living life in all its fullness, nurturing the whole child and preparing them for a balanced and fulfilling future.

 

Why we love Forest school:

''Forest school is so much fun and I get to explore with my friends!'' Jonny 

'I get to play in the mud and get messy!'' Mateo

''Mud kitchen is the best because I like making my yummy pine cone cakes and mud pies!'' Tommy

''Bug hunting because I love rescuing worms!'' Elisabeth

''Overcoming challenges and not saying 'no' before trying things out!'' Ben 

''I Love watching the birds and squirrels!'' Jack

Pupil Voice (July 2024)

Hayley Richardson is our Forest School Leader

 

*26.7.24 - Please note that our Forest School policy & Risk Assessments are currently being updated for Autumn 2024 and will be uploaded shortly below.