Forest Schools originated from the Scandinavian Education System based on outdoor learning. It offers regular opportunities to learn in and about the natural environment. It allows children the space and time to develop through exploration and play with practical hands on experiences. Developed in the UK Forest Schools has become very popular, and evidence has shown successful learning outcomes for all who participate in it. Forest School children develop confidence, self-esteem and independence.
Here at John Donne we began offering weekly access to our Forest School in September 2016. Each year group enjoys an afternoon with our qualified Forest School Level 3 member of staff.
All children will be taking part in a variety of activities, in child centred lessons, carefully planned around topics with cross curricular links.
- Learning about seasonal changes
- Learning to use tools
- Den building
- Working with mud and clay
- Fire lighting and kettle boiling
- Collecting, observing and recording
- Exploring, investigating and finding out
- Studying flora and fauna
- Solving problems and team building
Links have been made with another Forest School Leader so that planned visits to a forest can take place each term.
Forest School children develop increased health, fitness and emotional wellbeing from being active in an outdoor natural environment.
- They have opportunities to develop fine and gross motor skills and coordination
- They develop social skills by communicating, and negotiating while solving problems, working together and sharing experiences
- They develop a sense of self care, responsibility and independence
- They gain knowledge through multi-sensory experiences and real life learning with links to the National Curriculum
Forest School takes place all year round and in all weathers. To ensure the children are comfortable and get the most out of the experiences they will need a pair of wellington boots and warm, waterproof, outer garments. These should be kept in a bag on their peg ready for their turn. They may bring old clothes to change into if you prefer. Arms and legs need to be covered and hair must be tied up. Encourage your child to talk about the natural environment and give them opportunities to be in it as often as possible.
The children enjoy collecting our Forest School badges as recognition of their contributions to our Forest School.