Forest Schools and Allotment
What is Forest School?
Forest School is an inspiring child-centred approach to learning that takes place in a natural outdoor environment. Originating in Scandinavia in the 1950s and later introduced to the United Kingdom in the 1990s, Forest School encourages children to explore, discover and learn through hands-on experiences in nature. Through activities such as den building, nature investigations, tool use, creative play and teamwork, children develop confidence, independence and resilience. Forest School also supports physical development, communication skills, problem-solving abilities and emotional wellbeing. By spending regular time outdoors, children gain a deeper understanding of the natural world while fostering a lifelong love of learning and respect for the environment.
Allotment
In our federation, we place a strong emphasis on healthy eating and helping children develop positive lifelong habits. Our allotment provides a valuable opportunity for pupils to grow their own fruit, vegetables and herbs, giving them a real understanding of where food comes from and the journey from seed to plate. Through hands-on experiences, children learn practical gardening skills alongside important knowledge about nutrition, sustainability and healthy lifestyles. Growing food encourages responsibility, patience and teamwork, while also fostering a connection with nature and the environment. By engaging children in food production from an early age, we aim to inspire informed food choices and equip them with the knowledge and confidence to make healthy decisions for themselves and their families in the future.
Outdoor Learning and the Curriculum
Children in Reception, KS1 and Years 3/4 take part in weekly Forest School and outdoor learning sessions. These experiences provide exciting opportunities to develop practical skills, build confidence and foster a love of the natural environment.
During Forest School, pupils learn a range of hands-on skills, including knot tying, den building and the safe use of tools. Through exploration, teamwork and problem-solving activities, children develop resilience, independence and creativity.
Outdoor learning is also used to enhance and enrich the curriculum. Wherever possible, children take their learning beyond the classroom to make it more engaging and meaningful. For example, pupils in Years 3/4 explore topics such as rocks, soils and plants through practical investigations in the outdoor environment, allowing them to experience scientific concepts first-hand.
By combining classroom learning with outdoor experiences, we help children develop curiosity, deepen their understanding and create memorable learning opportunities that inspire a lifelong love of learning.
What does my child need for Forest School?
- Wellie boots (Reception children are encouraged to have a pair in school all of the time) or old suitable footwear
- Old long bottoms which protect legs from being scratched (not shorts)
- Layers for when it's cold in the winter (vest, T-shirt, jumper, fleece, warm coat)
- Jacket with hood for autumn to spring
- when it is raining, we have waterproof jackets and trousers in school to wear over clothes
- Old clothes so we can get muddy!
Click on the document below to discover how we build and develop Forest School skills progressively as children move through our schools.