Forest Schools

Forest School is a very different learning experience. It is not curriculum led and activities are not timed or regulated in the same way as a classroom. Children are offered the opportunity to participate in activities in almost all weathers, providing they are suitably dressed (clothing and footwear). They will learn from an array of activities that will encourage and motivate, and also give them the time to work at their own pace.

We hope to bring a holistic approach to our Forest School, which means we hope to develop the child as a whole. This impacts positively both mentally and physically and leads to positive social interaction. We hope to bring the children of Braunston School outside to equip them to use fine and gross motor skills using physical and practical experiences.

An outside setting brings so many more opportunities for exploration (the seasons, weather, sounds, textures etc). It can also allow the children to explore imaginitively and create spiritual and mythological connections.

Forest School is suitable for children of all ages and abilities. It is particularly suited to those children who may find their school journey quite challenging. These children may have a short attention span, low self-esteem, or may struggle for many reasons to settle in their learning within a classrooom environment. It has been observed that when given small, fun, achievable tasks, together with relevant praise, this will boost confidence and self-esteem. Our activities are fun and will be enjoyed by all. When a child realises their sense of achievement, this is transferred back to the classroom and a more positive attitude is hopefully adopted. As time progresses, we hope to see an increase in the children's independence, confidence and ability.

Forest School is carried out in a safe controlled setting under the supervision of trained staff and support workers, with correct staff/child ratios.

• Den building
• Rope work - knots and lashings
• Art using natural materials
• Clay work
• Bug hunting
• Tracking - human and animal
• Fire lighting and cooking
• Nature Bingo - collecting and identifying
• Woodwork - using tools (including care and cleaning of the equipment)
• Games
• Climbing - which may include balancing
• Tree identification and exploration
• Mud kitchen
• Creating bird feeders and bug hotels

We are sure your child will find their Forest School experiences fun, exciting and rewarding. We hope to visit two other sites in our village and hope this brings a sense of community and belonging to the children of Braunston School.

Forest School will encourage your children to:

• Problem solve
• Use their own judgement
• Develop their independence
• Explore and use their 5 senses
• Develop practical skills including the use of tools
• Learn how to manage failure, encourage them to explore a healthy and balanced lifestyle
• Explore relationships between humans, animals and our natural surroundings
• Experience achievements through activities and tasks, reflect on their experiences
• Develop their communication and language skills
• Develop an appreciation of their team and fellow classmates