Forest School

Forest School is an outdoor learning experience based on the Scandinavian Forest School ethos: exploring the natural environment, letting the children lead the learning, being respectful towards nature, and encouraging curiosity, social interaction and responsible risk taking.

The activities include den building, natural art, minibeast hunts, meeting the park ranger, investigating big puddles, pond dipping…and having hot chocolate and lunch outside!

All the Nursery children take part throughout the year, in all weathers, observing the seasons and different natural phenomena in groups of 12-15.

Last summer term Y1 classes also participated in a Bug Hotel-making project which can be found in the Nursery playground.

Each group goes in a 5 week block which enables the children to build their confidence slowly; many children become more talkative outdoors and we also notice an improvement in physical skills as we move on different kinds of ground and walk a lot! The response from children, parents and other the staff involved has been overwhelmingly positive so far and it has been great to see the enthusiasm from the children despite not enjoying the best of weather conditions.

We love the outdoors at Millfields!