Forest School Day 2025

office5855
Oct 10
2 min read

St. Michael's Nursery has its own Forest School based in a separate natural wooded area on site. Run by qualified Forest School Leader Katie 'Fox', Forest School runs all year round. This play based and holistic approach is child led. This promotes autonomy, children are intrinsically motivated to learn and it meets the child where they are at on their learning journey.

Katie explains, "It's my role to hold the space for the children to facilitate what is needed and when. I often respond in that moment to accommodate the learning through play. This means that no two sessions are ever the same. There is no fixed agenda or push for outcomes. Its all about that moment and facilitating a space, giving children what they need."

There are many benefits for children attending Forest School. Katie explains a little about what they offer, "Its certainly my happy place. Watching children arrive in the woodland, explore, persevere, problem solve and show compassion to the creatures that call it their home."

We all know that being outside stregnthens children's immune systems, boosts mood, supports mental well-being, reduces stress and the natural light can improve sleep.

There ae plenty of opportunities for children to learn woodwork, using drills, whittling, sanding and using mallets. We offer cooking on the campfire and even learning how to light it!

What is quality Forest School?

Quality Forest School is delivery which holds to all six key principles that shape and govern the Forest School ethos. These six principles are:

Forest School is a long-term process
This develops a deep understanding of natural environment promoting a sense of stewardship towards nature.
Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural environment
Being immersed in and connected with nature boosts well-being and offers so many learning opportunities.
Forest School is Learner-Centred
They are intrinsically motivated through play and this supports their learning
Holistic Development
By nurturing social, physical, intellectual, creative, emotional and spiritual development.
Forest School prepares learners by facilitating opportunities fostering resilience, confidence, independence, perseverance and cognitive skills
Supported Risk Taking
Forest School encourages learners to take supported risks that are appropriate to the environment and where they are in their learning. This includes fire lighting, using tools, exploring with rope, sticks, den building, climbing and heights.
Forest School is run by qualified Forest School Practitioners
Qualified in Forest School with the necessary Paediatric First Aid in the Outdoors
Regularly reviewing practice and updating training.