What is Forest School? 

Forest School is a child-centred inspirational learning process, that offers opportunities for holistic growth through regular sessions. It is a long-term programme that supports play, exploration and supported risk taking. It develops confidence and self-esteem through learner inspired, hands-on experiences in a natural setting. 

                                                                                                                                                                               - Forest School Association

Benefits of Forest Schools

The Forest School programme can offer significant benefits to a child's social, emotional and physical development, all of which can apply to other areas of life.

Here are some of the benefits. 

- Develop a love for nature and all things outdoors.

- Use effective team work and communication skills.

- Be independent in your problem solving.

- Learn how to assess and take appropriate risks. 

- Show resilience and determination to complete a task. 

- Develop your fine and gross motor skills.

- Improve your physical fitness. 

- Build new and strengthen existing relationships with peers. 

- Be reflective and learn from your actions.

- Play games & explore the Forest School site. 

- Experience, discover and learn from something new.

- Enjoy some well deserved time to laugh and HAVE FUN! 

Every child at Forest Schools is equal, unique and valuable; free to initiate and drive their own learning & entitled to experience and benefit from regular success and achievement. 

Forest Schools can be enjoyed by children of all ages.

The F2 children love their 'Muddy Mondays' with Mrs Smith :-)

What will children need to bring for Forest Schools?

"There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing."

                                           - Alfred Wainwright

Clothing will depend on the weather, however, you should usually wear something that you don't mind getting dirty or damaged. 

 We would always recommend the following.

- Suitable and stable footwear

(e.g. walking boots, wellies or old trainers)

- Long trousers and a long sleeved jacket / t-shirt 

(in case we're exploring in long grass or bushes)

- A suitable rain jacket or coat

(because it's England).

Other clothing and equipment you may need:

- A warm hat (if cold) or sun cap (if sunny)

- Suncream (for hot days)

- Thermal layers, gloves and a scarf (for cold days).

Forest School Leaders at Northfield 

Our qualified Level 3 Forest School Leaders are

- Mrs K. Smith

- Miss L. Taylor

- Mrs K. Faulkner

- Mrs G. Eeles

- Mrs C. Faulkner