What is Forest School?
Forest School is a method of working outdoors with children, young people and adults, using the natural environment to promote emotional and social development.
“It is an inspirational process that offers ALL learners regular opportunities to achieve and develop self confidence and self esteem through child-led, play based, hands-on learning experiences in a woodland or natural environment.” (Forest School Association)
Forest School is a long-term programme delivered by trained practitioners within a natural setting. Each Forest School session is tailored to meet the needs of individuals within the group and is continuously developed as the children grow in confidence, skills and understanding.
Rationale
At Tritlington First School, we are committed to providing a purposeful and empowering Forest School experience by broadening the horizons of our pupils and connecting them with nature. We have a dedicated Forest School area, complete with firepit, within our beautiful school grounds. Our Forest School offer gives children the knowledge and understanding they need to make informed choices and be a positive influence in our woodland area.
Today’s children are growing up in an increasingly complex world and pressure can impact mental health in our children. Forest School allows children to improve mental health and learn coping strategies by developing skills such as confidence and resilience, self-esteem, risk-management, team building and critical thinking.
Forest School Leaders
Each Forest School session will take place with a Level 3 accredited Forest School Leader, Mrs Stephenson, supported by additional learning support assistants/class teachers. The leader will promote the Forest School and outdoor learning ethos. They are responsible for the delivery of each session , the care and safety of the children and staff involved and ensuring that policies, procedures and statutory guidance is being followed. The Forest School lead will regularly check maintenance of the site and resources used. The Forest School leader will skilfully observe, mentor and support all learners.
Class teachers will liaise with the Forest School leader to develop more opportunities for outdoor learning within the academic curriculum.
Forest School Code of Conduct
We have adopted the code of conduct used through ATNE training sessions:
Be kind to yourself
Be kind to others
Be kind to the environment
Ask before you pick
Ask before you lick
Be careful with your stick
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