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Forest School

An Introduction

Forest School is the creation of a formal link between education and the outdoor environment. Working outdoors with children was initially developed in Scandinavia and has been part of their system of education since the 1950’s. The concept of Forest School in Scandinavia is rooted within the philosophy of free play, creativity, socialisation and emotional stability. Children are encouraged to explore, investigate, take risks and respect their outdoor environment. We are very lucky here at Oak View as we have two types of small woodlands on site which means that we have a wide range of flora and fauna available for us to study.

Oak View Forest School

We endorse the above philosophies and are fully aware of the benefits Forest School has for our children. It offers them a unique opportunity to experience the outdoors in a way that will foster their growth as confident and competent learners. Forest School will improve our children’s knowledge and understanding of the world around them and provide them with opportunities to develop the skills needed to become lifelong learners. Forest School will provide children with memorable learning experiences which will enrich their time at Oak View. We know that Forest School will improve our children’s self-esteem, confidence and well- being, all of which will aid Oak View in its efforts to achieve the 5 Every Child Matters outcomes for all of our children.

Teaching and Learning in Forest School.

The teaching and learning in Oak View Forest School will be child centred. Each session will have a clear beginning and end which will be led by our Level 3 Forest School Leader, Miss Bray.  Activities will be focused on introducing children to Forest School and developing their respect for the environment and imparting the rules which keep everyone safe. Each year, all children will have a four day experience in Forest School which will be structured as follows:

Day 1 – Nature
Day 2 – Fire
Day 3 – Tools
Day 4 – Rope

Before any activity is started children will receive a full safety talk outlining all of the risk benefits involved. Under adult supervision, children are encouraged to overcome any barriers they face by their own accord, helping create independent thinkers and problem solvers.