FOREST SCHOOLS

Countryside Skills

Our forest school sessions are called Countryside Skills. They are based outdoors, the children are engaged with seasonal activities and tasks. They have an opportunity to explore and learn outside. we have a progressive curriculum so that the children learn about the natural world around them and are introduced new tools, skills and challenges building on their knowledge each year; from whittling flag poles to building towers and catapults. The sessions also provide an exciting way to extend classroom topics. Building an iron age settlement, river study fieldwork, smelting and casting metal. As importantly, through the activities, children build upon their social skills, self esteem and confidence. 

Outdoor Learning encourages children to:

  • develop personal and social skills
  • work through practical problems and challenges
  • use tools to create, build or manage
  • learn how to manage failures
  • build confidence in decision making and evaluating risk
  • develop practical skills
  • understand the benefits of a balanced and healthy lifestyle
  • explore connections between humans, wildlife and the earth
  • develop their language and communication skills
  • improve physical motor skills
  • improve their concentration skills