Aims
At Abbey CE VA Primary School, our aim is to provide regular opportunities for pupils to achieve and develop confidence through hands-on learning experiences in our woodland environment. We believe that Forest School helps children develop physically, emotionally and socially through exploring and experiencing the natural world. Our curriculum aims to nurture confident, resilient and independent learners who understand and respect their environment. We strive to create enthusiastic outdoor learners who can assess risk, solve problems creatively, and develop a lifelong love of nature.
How We Teach Forest School
Our approach to Forest School follows a child-led, play-based methodology that nurtures curiosity and self-confidence. Sessions are carefully planned and delivered by Mrs Harley but they are flexible, allowing children to direct their own learning while developing new skills in a safe environment.
Mrs Harley delivers Forest School through:
- Regular outdoor sessions in all weathers
- Small group activities
- Hands-on exploration
- Practical skill development
- Environmental education
- Team challenges
- Seasonal activities
Mrs Harley is a qualified Forest School practitioner who understands how to facilitate learning in the outdoor environment. She creates opportunities for children to take supported risks and develop their independence while learning about the natural world.
Assessment focuses on personal development, skill acquisition, and environmental understanding through observation and documentation of each child’s journey.
What Skills and Knowledge Will Your Child Learn?
Throughout their time at Forest School, pupils develop essential outdoor skills and knowledge. In the early years, children begin to explore the natural environment through play-based activities, developing their confidence in the outdoor space.
As they progress, pupils develop skills across key areas:
Practical Skills:
- Tool use and safety
- Fire lighting and management
- Shelter building
- Knot tying
- Natural crafts
- Woodland maintenance
- Safe use of equipment
Environmental Understanding:
- Plant and tree identification
- Wildlife and habitats
- Seasonal changes
- Environmental impact
- Conservation
- Sustainability
- Weather awareness
Personal Development:
- Risk assessment
- Problem-solving
- Team working
- Self-confidence
- Emotional regulation
- Resilience
- Independence
Physical Development:
- Gross motor skills
- Fine motor skills
- Balance and coordination
- Physical stamina
- Spatial awareness
- Manual dexterity
- Body control
By the end of their Forest School journey, pupils will have developed:
- Confidence in outdoor environments
- Understanding of natural processes
- Practical woodland skills
- Risk management abilities
- Environmental awareness
- Communication skills
- Personal resilience
These skills and knowledge progress systematically through regular sessions, building on previous experiences. Our approach develops important life competencies including:
- Critical thinking
- Creative problem-solving
- Environmental responsibility
- Social cooperation
- Emotional wellbeing
- Physical capabilities
Through our Forest School curriculum, pupils learn to:
- Work safely with tools and fire
- Understand and respect nature
- Take appropriate risks
- Work cooperatively
- Solve practical problems
- Build emotional resilience
- Care for the environment
We believe these skills and knowledge are essential for pupils to develop as confident, capable individuals who understand and value the natural world. Our Forest School provision ensures all pupils have regular access to high-quality outdoor learning experiences that support their overall development and wellbeing.
