Forest School

‘The best classroom and the richest cupboard are roofed only by the sky’.

Margaret McMillan

Forest School History

Forest School originates from Sweden where it has been continually developing since the mid 50’s. The main focus is to deliver all aspects of the curriculum in the outdoor environment. Through various studies it has been proven that children who experienced outdoor learning developed socially, had deeper concentration, improved behaviour and increased overall academic attainment. Forest school will give children the opportunity to develop self-confidence through self-learning through natural play. We are very lucky here at Bickerstaffe School as we have an opportunity to develop our very own Forest School using our school grounds.

What is Forest School?

Forest School is based on the principle that children of all ages can benefit greatly from the learning opportunities inherently present in a woodland environment. Forest Schools provides opportunities in an outdoor setting for children to develop a variety of skills: particularly PSHE skills such as independence, self-discovery, communication, self-esteem and confidence building. Children learn to take risks, use their initiatives and co-operate. Beyond this, teachers can use the outdoor environment as a vehicle for art activities, key science concepts, developing physical skills and a whole lot more! In a typical session there may be an adult-led activity, but the ethos of Forest Schools also allows time for children to follow their own learning pathways and interests and adults then support them in their learning. This learner-centred approach interweaves with the ever-changing moods and marvels, potential and challenges of the natural world through the seasons to fill every Forest School session and programme with discovery and difference.

How are sessions organised?

We are fortunate enough to have our Forest School on site where we have set up a base camp which we will use during every session. The sessions will be on Wednesdays for children in EYFS. Sessions will take place in all weathers so please ensure your child has: hat, gloves, warm clothes (winter) and long sleeve tops and trousers (winter) Risk assessments are undertaken and medical needs are taken into account

What do we do at Forest School?

At Forest School the children have the opportunity to engage in both adult-directed and child-led activities. Children will be encouraged to explore, investigate, problem solve, take risks, work cooperatively and creatively throughout their Forest School sessions. All aspects of the EYFS curriculum will be evident in Forest School. Below is an example of some adult-led activities:

English

Story telling, learning new words, using nature in poetry, developing communication skills through team work

Mathematics

Measuring trees, shapes in nature and data collection

Science

Research food chains, pond and woodland mini beasts, life cycles and methods of creating fire.

ICT

Producing data . Recording project work, using the ipads to take photos and videos.

Art, Design and Technology

Natural art (mud painting, collages) working with clay and mud, willow sculpture and willow weaving. Den making, camp fire making and using tools.

Music

Making instruments and recreating animal and natural sounds.

Geography

Map reading, researching seasonal changes, comparing woodland and urban environments.

History

Research the local woodlands and any significant nature areas.

Physical Education

Walking, low level tree climbing and low level obstacle courses.

Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED)

Encourages working together in small teams, develops turn taking, building positive relationships with adults and peers, celebrating success and feeling valued.

Forest School at Bickerstaffe.mp4

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Bickerstaffe C.E. School and Nursery