Forest School is a very different learning experience.  It is not curriculum led and activities are not timed or regulated in the same way as a classroom.  Children are offered the opportunity to participate in activities in almost all weathers, providing they are suitably dressed (clothing and footwear).  They will learn from an array of activities that will encourage and motivate, and also give them the time to work at their own pace.

We hope to bring a holistic approach to our Forest School, which means we hope to develop the child as a whole.  This impacts positively both mentally and physically and leads to positive social interaction.  We hope to bring the children of Braunston School outside to equip them to use fine and gross motor skills using physical and practical experiences.

An outside setting brings so many more opportunities for exploration (the seasons, weather, sounds, textures etc).  It can also allow the children to explore imaginitively and create spiritual and mythological connections.

Forest School is suitable for children of all ages and abilities.  It is particularly suited to those children who may find their school journey quite challenging.  These children may have a short attention span, low self-esteem, or may struggle for many reasons to settle in their learning within a classrooom environment.  It has been observed that when given small, fun, achievable tasks, together with relevant praise, this will boost confidence and self-esteem.  Our activities are fun and will be enjoyed by all.  When a child realises their sense of achievement, this is transferred back to the classroom and a more positive attitude is hopefully adopted.  As time progresses, we hope to see an increase in the children's independence, confidence and ability.

Forest School is carried out in a safe controlled setting under the supervision of trained staff and support workers, with correct staff/child ratios.

Mrs Barnwell is our Forest School Leader and is working towards her Level 3 Qualification.

Mrs Allinson is our Forest School Support and is working towards her Level 2 Qualification.

We have regular support from parent volunteers to assist with our sessions.

We aim to offer a selection of actvities throughout the programme using natural materials where possible.  The activities may include:

Den building

Rope work - knots and lashings

Art using natural materials

Clay work

Bug hunting

Tracking - human and animal

Fire lighting and cooking

Nature Bingo - collecting and identifying

Woodwork - using tools (including care and cleaning of the equipment)

Games

Climbing - which may include balancing

Tree identification and exploration

Mud kitchen

Creating bird feeders and bug hotels

We are sure your child will find their Forest School experiences fun, exciting and rewarding.  We hope to visit two other sites in our village and hope this brings a sense of community and belonging to the children of Braunston School.

Forest School will encourage your children to:

Problem solve

Use their own judgement

Develop their independence

Explore and use their 5 senses

Develop practical skills including the use of tools

Learn how to manage failure, encourage them to explore a healthy and balanced lifestyle

Explore relationships between humans, animals and our natural surroundings

Experience achievements through activities and tasks, reflect on their experiences

Develop their communication and language skills

Develop an appreciation of their team and fellow classmates