The Roots of Forest School.

Forest schools originally came from Sweden in the 1950’s.   It helped children learn about the environment around them through play and their own experiences.   The Forest Commission realised the importance of Forest Schools and stated in 2002 that for children to have access to a “green space” isn’t only about the environment, but also about the tremendous cross curricula benefit the children get from learning in a natural space.

The Ethos of Forest School.

Forest School encourages the children to explore using their own ideas and imagination.   Most activities are child led, to allow the children to investigate and problem solve.   This  will help develop independent, self motivated thinkers.   Activities are put together in small manageable steps that we scaffold to allow the child to develop the skill they are learning, at their own pace and level.   All children of all abilities are able to enjoy and learn at Forest School.   The styles of learning used at Forest School maximise emotional, social and behavioural development.  By helping the child to succeed in their task, it boosts their self esteem and confidence.   Every child is special, with qualities and strengths; Forest Schools can help them build on these with confidence.

Activities.

The children carry out various activities in groups, pairs and on their own.   They can play hide and seek, build dens, make mud sculptures/faces, go bug hunting, collect and sort various natural items, investigate weather, growth and decay; make paints from natural resources and paint pictures, use tools, tell stories, sing songs and many more fun and exciting ways to keep healthy and learn about the environment.   Children need time to explore their feelings, thoughts and relationships and at Forest School they have time to do this, whilst developing an understanding of the world and environment.

Thaxted Primary School provides opportunities to learn in our field 'Wellyboot Garden' throughout the year and across all key stages.

Please let your child's class teacher know if you would like to help with our Forest School sessions. We always welcome any help from parents and grandparents.

Natural Art 

Using Trees as a Canvas