Our approach to teaching Forest School

We provide lots of opportunities for our pupils to explore, dig, build, create, climb, run freely, take risks, play and have fun during forest school sessions.  A key part of the approach is to create a space where pupils can be dynamic and independent, to facilitate child led learning, so they test their own abilities in a real life context.  The "theme" of a Forest School lesson is broadly linked to the current topic of that year group (for information on each year groups current topic, please visit our Class Pages).  There are many practical applications and opportunities to learn outside in nature and our pupils get the chance to do things they might not do often like light fires, use tools or climb trees - it all happens here!    

"Significantly, and on many levels, a woodland environment is central in supporting this very dynamic approach to learning: the passage of time, from the changing of the seasons, to the contemplation of an ancient tree; the dynamic nature of an outdoor environment - an infinite source of smells, textures, sounds and tastes; a range of visual stimuli from near to far, high to low, very big to very small; and the infinite layers of historical, cultural, spiritual and mythological significance that speak of our deep relationship with trees and woodland through the age" (FSTC). 

Our Forest School Leader

This year, we are fortunate to have Mrs Tracy Hayling as our Forest School Leader.  With a background in primary school teaching, Tracy has been teaching Forest School sessions for over 13 years in England, Australia and China.

Our core aim for all pupils

At the heart of forest school is the aim to provide regular opportunities for all our pupils to feel at ease and connected to nature and the outdoors.  Children often spend more time on screens nowadays instead of being outdoors and engaging with nature.  The outdoors for some pupils, can even come as a bit of a shock - and a coat and wellies is a novel experience! 

"Research shows that children and young people are stimulated by the outdoors and typically experience, over time, an increase in their self belief, confidence, learning capacity, enthusiasm, communication and problem-solving skills, and emotional well-being" (FSTC). 

Forest School in our Beautiful Grounds

We are very fortunate to be  able to offer regular Forest School sessions at the Rosary School.  The children learn a lot from these outdoor lessons and our school grounds are a great resource in which to foster a love of the natural world.

Ofsted: Learning Outside the Classroom manifesto

Links to resources to embed and extend your child's learning

Further reading

National Trust: 50 things to do before you're 11¾ 

Gov.uk: The Natural Connections Demonstration project