A week in the Forest School.

This week it has been so beautiful to have clear, expansive, blue skies, light shining down and not a breath of wind. A beginning of Spring filled with hope, after a very dark, wet winter. All Year groups are still learning about bird identification, playing games to help embed that knowledge but now we can also start enjoying the sunshine and exploring the Forest School. Before half term Miss Rowe set up a woodland stage and the children have been using it to showcase their talents. This week we did this together but the children will be able to access this in their free play time.

Year 6 tried their hand at freestanding shelters and the adults had a go too. This is really challenging, especially without tools or fastenings. They will progress their skills over this half term, looking at making woodland beds and really understanding using natural materials for weather-proofing.

A key part of Forest School is giving children the opportunity for free play in nature. This means they can explore the woodland, follow their curiosity and use natural materials in their own imaginative way. Adults are always there to unsure safety, observe learning and support children’s ideas but we avoid directing so they can develop confidence in their creativity and develop problem solving skills.

Alongside this child-led exploration we include teaching moments where new skills are introduced, such as tying knots, fastening structures or ecological knowledge. These skills give the children new ideas and techniques that they can then use in their own projects and play. By combining free exploration with practical skill teaching, Forest School supports independence, resilience and a strong connection to the natural world.