Q: What is forest school?

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Forest School is defined by 6 core principles:

Leadership Principle

Nature Principle

Community Principle

Risk Principle

Holistic Learning Principle

Long Term Principle

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This was agreed by the Forest School community in 2011. In Forest School no single principle takes precedence over the others; instead, they work harmoniously, interlocking to create a unique environment for learning and growth.

(As taken from the Forest School Association website).​​

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In harmony with these six Forest School principles, our approach is long-term, participant-focused, and rooted in regular experiences in a natural setting. We nurture holistic development; physical, emotional, social, and spiritual, through hands-on exploration, planning for play, risk-taking within safe boundaries, and meaningful relationships with the land, each other, and the wider community. Our practitioners are committed to reflective practice, modelling respect and stewardship, and creating opportunities for participants to develop resilience, creativity, and independence.

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Q: Do we go out in all weathers?

 

Yes, not much bad weather can stop us apart from high winds in the woods because of the danger of falling branches.

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Q: What should my child wear? 

 

To ensure your child is safe and comfortable

we recommend the below clothing for Forest School.

 

Colder weather:

 

- Thermal layers (Lidl, Aldi and Vinted are a good source for these)

- Warm socks (+ spares)

- Woollen or fleece jumper

- Waterproof coat and trousers (waterproof trousers rather than all-in-ones make outdoor toilet trips a little easier!)

- Hat, Gloves, Snood

- Waterproof boots or wellies (wellies can get cold so pair with thick socks)

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Warmer weather: 

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- Light long sleeves and trousers to protect skin from the sun, nettles and insect bites. 

- Trainers (children should always wear shoes which cover the entire foot)

- A hat

 

Q: What if it rains? 

 

The trees provide a natural canopy and we will also use a tarpaulin shelter.

 

Q: What not to bring? 

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We would ask that children do not bring anything electronic into the woods in order to allow for focused play and learning in nature. 

 

Q: Do the children need to be toilet-trained?

 

For Drop-Off sessions, yes. Children will have access to an on-site camping toilet and they will need to be able to manage going to the loo by themselves.

 

Q: Are staff DBS checked?

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Yes!

 

Q: What if my child is sick?

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To avoid disappointment, please do not bring sick children to a session, as the team may, for the comfort of the child and the health of the group, refuse admission at drop-off.