Inclusive Forest School

Fully funded

Forest School sessions that draw from a wide range of resources such as games, fire lighting, nature crafts and tool use. The forest school leaders will carefully scaffold learning and experiences in order to create a safe and welcoming environment which prevents overwhelming sensory experiences.

At each session children will be engaged in a range of activities to provide adults time to talk and build community with other parents. Parents and carers are supported to take part in group activities including developing campfire skills, campfire cooking, nature crafts and woodcraft wellbeing programmes.

Each term will comprise a small group of children (6) and their parent/primary caregiver (6) in a woodland environment. In order for you to feel confident to attend sessions we are available up to two weeks prior to the first session; to introduce the forest school leaders via online and in-person visits, to share images and videos of the woodland, to develop an understanding of individual needs and to build trusting relationships.

Principle One:
Forest School is a long-term process of frequent and regular sessions in a woodland or natural environment, rather than a one-off visit. Planning, adaptation, observations and reviewing are integral elements of Forest School.

Principle Two:
Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural wooded environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.

Principle Three:
Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.

Principle Four:
Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.

Principle Five:
Forest School is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.

Principle Six:
Forest School uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for development and learning.

Sessions take place year round and in all weathers. Please ensure to dress appropriately for the weather, bring along snacks or a packed lunch. We often cook a snack over the campfire in colder weather and tea and coffee is always available... bring a mug!

During forest school sessions we gather together to share stories, songs and explore the natural environment. We enjoy nature craft activities and games. Parent and child groups introduce children and families to nature play and activities based on forest school principles.
Groups for older children also include circle time and reflective time. Sessions are based around building confidence, developing skills and learning about the natural resources around us.

WARNING - Your child is likely to get muddy; and enjoy it!

Clothing requirements

Please ensure that you and your child/ren are dressed appropriately for the weather. Forest School will take place in all weathers excepting high winds or storms. If children are dressed inappropriately they will not be able to enjoy the session and fully experience the sessions.

Cold weather - loose thin layers that can trap warmth. Warm boots, hats, gloves and thick outer layer.
Wet weather - waterproof boots and outer layer. Hat and gloves.
Hot weather - thin clothes with arms and legs covered if possible i.e. leggings and t-shirt (to protect from scratches etc. Sunhat.