Forest School sits within and complements the broader concept of outdoor learning.  It offers children, young people and adults regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands-on learning experiences in a natural woodland environment, helping them to develop physically, emotionally and socially, whilst forming an appreciation and respect for the natural world. 

Sessions are child-led and child-initiated, allowing each child to follow their own interests and develop at their own pace.  Research has shown that Forest School increases children’s confidence, self-esteem, independence, self-awareness, motor and social skills.  As the weeks continue, the sessions are built on and children learn to understand boundaries, stay safe whilst taking risks, explore at their own level and pace and use and develop creative imaginations.

Led by trained Forest School leaders who hold the Level 3 Forest School practitioner qualification, activities may include minibeasts, shelter building, making campfires and cooking, tool use, plants and woodland exploration.

A typical 2.5-hour session includes:

• Safety rules through fun activities games
• Leader directed nature-based activity
• Free exploration time and play
• Snacks toasted on the fire with a drink whilst reading a story (for younger children) followed by sharing and reflecting on the session

Our three fire circles in Seeley Copse are also available to hire for schools, colleges and other groups wishing to visit on a self-led basis.