Welcome to Forest School!

At Wittersham Church of England Primary School, we are proud to offer Forest School as a key part of our curriculum, providing our children with a unique and enriching outdoor learning experience. Forest School allows students to engage with nature, develop practical skills, and build resilience through hands-on learning and play in the great outdoors.

What We Do in Forest School

Forest School is a child-led approach to learning, where we encourage children to explore, discover, and connect with their natural surroundings. The sessions are designed to be flexible, providing opportunities for children to follow their interests, work collaboratively, and develop a sense of independence and confidence. Here’s an insight into what we do:

• Outdoor Learning: Each week, children from across the school participate in Forest School sessions where they engage in a wide variety of activities designed to inspire curiosity and creativity. Whether it’s building dens, exploring wildlife, or making nature-inspired crafts, every session is an opportunity for discovery and learning.
• Problem-Solving and Risk-Taking: Forest School encourages children to assess risks, solve problems, and think critically. Through activities like tree climbing, whittling sticks, or navigating obstacles, children learn to challenge themselves, gain confidence in their abilities, and build resilience.
• Environmental Stewardship: At Forest School, children develop a strong sense of responsibility for the natural world. They participate in activities such as gardening, creating habitats for wildlife, and learning about sustainable practices, helping them understand the importance of caring for the environment and the world around them.
• Teamwork and Social Skills: Many of our Forest School activities involve collaborative tasks, where children work together to achieve common goals. These experiences help to foster strong communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.
• Physical Activity and Wellbeing: Being outdoors allows children to engage in physical activities in a natural environment, supporting their physical development and overall well-being. Forest School helps to reduce stress, improve focus, and boost confidence, all while encouraging physical activity and fitness.
• Reflection and Personal Growth: After each Forest School session, children have the opportunity to reflect on their experiences, share their achievements, and discuss what they have learnt. This time for reflection supports emotional growth and helps children build a positive mindset, learn from their experiences, and develop self-awareness.

Our Philosophy

The aim of Forest School is not just to teach children about nature, but to inspire a deep connection with the outdoors and promote their overall development. It provides a space where children feel empowered to take risks, ask questions, and solve problems in a supportive environment. Forest School is also aligned with our school values of courage, cooperation, and compassion, as children learn to work together and care for the world around them.

We believe that outdoor learning offers countless opportunities for growth, creativity, and personal development, and we are thrilled to provide our students with this enriching experience. Through Forest School, we aim to nurture well-rounded individuals who appreciate the importance of both the environment and their own personal journey of learning.