Kimpton, Thruxton and Fyfield Church of England Primary Boundary Woods Forest Schools Kimpton, Thruxton and Fyfield Church of England Primary Boundary Woods

What is Forest Schools?

The Beginning Forest Schools first began in Denmark. In 1993, three nursery teachers visited a Forest School in Denmark and fell in love with the approach to teaching. Forest School qualifications came apparent in 1995.

Forest Schools is… Child led learning in a controlled way Being outside of your 'comfort zone‘ Small, achievable tasks Appreciating nature Allowing independence Getting muddy!

Why use Forest Schools?

Scary Statistics 9 months is the age where children begin to watch TV. Children under 2 years spend 1 hour a day on a screen. Ages 2-4 - spend two and a half hours a day using screened technology. Ages 5-8 - spend up to three hours a day using screened technology.

Why? The main aim of Forest School's is to increase confidence and self-esteem - no curriculum objectives. There is no link to other subjects taught! This is all achieved through playing. Both adults and children need to play as it a fundamental part of development (socially, biologically and emotionally). Play is freely chosen and intrinsically motivated. Through task design, children can play independently whilst overcoming the simple and achievable goals.

Inclusion Every child WILL succeed in a Forest School's session. There is no success criteria! Freedom of choice. Collaboration. Practical skills. Leadership skills.

Various case studies from children of 3 - 17 years of age have shown the same benefits: Increased confidence in all areas. Intrinsically motivated. Social skills. Gross and fine motor skills. Bravery. Attendance Health - physically and mentally. Appreciation of the outdoor environment.

Forest School in Action https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrDkTm8eqAg

The Future… Six week programme for Yr2 in summer Term Each Class will received their own Forest School session Parent helpers are needed for these sessions.

Safety and Behaviour 1 full day spent on risk assessments during training. Thorough risk assessment have been made for all areas of Forest Schools. Appropriate clothing will be worn. The school's behaviour policy remains the same. Missing a Forest Schools session will not be used as a consequence for bad behaviour.

Teaching 6 sessions will be taught to Year 2 during the Summer 2 term. Videos and photos will be put on the website The sessions will be a continuing lesson for year 2 in September. 'One off' sessions will be available to all years. Implemented throughout the school.

Thank You