What is Forest School?

Forest School is a unique approach to learning which offers participants the opportunity to learn through experience in a woodland setting. It allows children to develop themselves through healthy engagement with risk, problem-solving and self-discovery.  All forms of outdoor education are valuable, but Forest School has its own philosophies and ethos that benefit children in unique ways.

Forest School was developed in Scandinavia and is now growing in popularity in the UK. Forest School is delivered in a natural environment by a qualified Level 4 Forest School Leader. Through practical hands-on activities, it allows children to follow interests and develop new skills. Children are given opportunities to learn tool use, cook on a campfire and take part in games and team building activities. We would hope that through Forest School each learner will become a RICHER person (Reflective and Responsible, Independent, Confident and Creative, Happy, Emotionally-aware, Resourceful and Resilient). 

 

Where do sessions take place?

Middleton Parish’s Forest School takes place in an area of the school grounds in a truly magical spot, which has some well-established trees, and a forest area planted by the children. This area is starting to flourish and is now home to lots of birds and insects.

 

What kind of activities take place in Middleton Parish’s Forest School?

A lot of children’s learning in Forest School is initiated by themselves as they explore and discover. The Forest School leader is trained to observe the children’s interest and plan in activities to enhance their learning and the curriculum.

Some of the planned activities your child may experience are:

  • Using tools (whittling sticks, sawing wood)
  • Cooking on a campfire
  • Building shelters
  • Natural artwork
  • Exploring the environment

Forest School