What is Forest School?

The ethos of Forest School is a unique approach to learning and play which gives the opportunity for children to build their confidence and capacity for learning through regular visits to a woodland setting.  Forest Schools originated in Scandinavia as a way of learning about the natural world, and they are an integral part of the Danish early years programme. 

The ethos of the Forest School experience is a learner-centred approach which focuses on the holistic development of the child.  Activities are child-led.  This approach enables young children to become independent, self-motivated and considerate, whilst developing an appreciation of the natural world.  It particularly supports the development of self-esteem and self-confidence.  The Forest School environment also promotes physical activity which in turn promotes physical and mental well-being.   Repeated visits are made to the same outdoor environment, over a range of seasons, with the same leader, offering unique learning opportunities.  The Forest School experience sets up the children for life long learning.

Through play, children learn about the natural environment in a multi-sensory way, how to handle risks and to use their own initiative to solve problems and co-operate with others. The programme runs throughout the year, going to the woods in all weathers. Children play, learn boundaries of behaviour (both physical and social), and learn to use tools safely; through these activities they grow in confidence, self-esteem and motivation.

• Be healthy
• Stay safe
• Enjoy and achieve
• Make a positive contribution

• Using our senses, including listening to the woodland sounds
• Going on a blind-fold safari through the woodland
• Making a variety of items from mud and twigs including hedgehogs & bugs
• Climbing trees and balancing on logs
• Burying ourselves in the leaves like a hibernating hedgehog
• Moving like minibeasts
• Using tools to cut & strip the bark from willow twigs
• Keeping warm with a Woodland Workout
• Making patterns in the soil
• Making collages and bark rubbings
• Playing 1,2,3 where are you?
• Mixing smelly potions
• Creating journey sticks

Guidelines for Clothing

• Lots of layers (vest, long-sleeved top, jumper /jumpers, warm coat
• Thick socks and wellies (little feet get very cold)
• Waterproofs,  even if not raining
• Hat, warm gloves & scarf

• 15 September
• 22 September
• 29 September
• 6 October
• 20 October

Forest School sessions will be run by me throughout this year.  I have now qualified as a Level 3 Forest School practitioner and intend to lead weekly sessions for the children, in our own woodland area in the school grounds at Harbury.   I will be holding a parents information event to tell you more about our Forest School and how to prepare your child for the sessions – date to be confirmed.

This half term, Forest School will be run on Tuesday mornings.  If your child does not usually attend nursery on Tuesday, but would like to take part in Forest School, please see Marie or Tina about arranging additional sessions.

Please ensure your child is suitably dressed and brings wellies for all sessions.

http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/website/forestresearch.nsf/ByUnique/INFD-6HKEMH