FOREST SCHOOL
The Forest Schools concept originated in Scandinavia. The approach was widely adopted in
Denmark during the 1980’s as a solution to the lack of indoor facilities for preschool children.
In 1993, a group of British nursery nurses and lecturers visited settings in Sweden, witnessing
the benefits of Forest School. On their return to the UK, they developed a Forest School
programme, based on the impacts developed training and accreditation for UK practitioners.
The philosophy of Forest School at St. Peters Thundersley Preschool is based upon the desire to
provide our young children with an education that encourages appreciation of the natural world
and for nature conservation in later life.Using the outdoor environment, children are encouraged
and inspired to grow in confidence, independence and self-esteem through the mastery of small
achievable tasks.
Forest School sessions are lead by a qualified Level 3 Forest School Leader and the children are
also supported by a group of parent volunteers. Forest School activities and routines are risk
assessed and carefully monitored to ensure the safety of everyone who attends Forest School
sessions.
What will my child do at Forest school?
Children will:
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Switch on their senses.
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Create art.
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Identify and learn about wildlife, trees and plants.
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Use natural materials and tools to make crafts.
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Make rope swings and rope bridges.
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Develop and enhance communication, social, emotional and physical
skills during play.
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Den building.
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Mini beast hunts.
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Cook on an open fire.
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AND HAVE LOTS OF FUN in all seasons and all weather!
At Forest School there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.
So we ask that children be fully prepared for the weather conditions.
During these sessions it is best for your children to wear old, warm
clothing.
During Spring/Summer, children will need:
Sun hat
Light long sleeved top
Long trousers
Wellington boots or closed in shoes.
During Autumn/Winter, children will need:
Warm waterproof coat
Waterproof trousers
Hat, scarf and gloves
Wellington boots
Sessions are child led but may have a theme, which may be linked to the National Curriculum or Early Years Foundation Stage. Children will be encouraged to discover, explore, observe and question what they find in the woods.
By being given responsibility for the woods, themselves and the group they are in, social and emotional development takes place as well as a growing attachment to their environment. We will set a number of small achievable tasks for them so their confidence increases over time.
Mrs Julie Ebbs
Forest School Leader
For more information, check out my website linked here: https://secondnatureforestschool.co.uk
