FOREST SCHOOL

Forest School inspires our Pre-Prep and Lower Prep boys in Year 3 with a respect for nature and a passion for the outdoors. They love exploring the natural world, and we will always head outside, come rain, sun or snow. The wetter and muddier the better! 
 
What is Forest School? 
 
‘Forest School’ is a holistic approach to learning that focuses on long term, repetitive processes using a natural outdoor space’.  Giving boys the time and space to develop at their own pace allows them to develop confidence and self-esteem. It enables them to achieve.  
 
Forest School encourages young boys to play an active part in their own learning. It develops social skills, cognitive development and creativity.  In regular weekly sessions, we see motivated, happy boys, engaged, participating, and focused on the range of activities offered. The benefits of this learning is then transferred to the classroom.   
 
 

 

GROWING UP IN FOREST SCHOOL

There has never been a more important time to put outdoor play at the forefront of primary education.  We have a dedicated outdoor space which is perfect for this age group and we were one of the first prep schools in the UK to go one step further with a  fully trained, dedicated Forest School Leader. 
 
We all know play is crucial in the development of a child’s mind and body, that knowledge is best acquired through real life experiences and that spending time outdoors is good for health and wellbeing.  But there is a world of difference between just having access to outside space for play and Forest School. 
 
You cannot just ‘do’ Forest School you have to learn about it, feel it and live it! 
 
The Forest School ethos is grounded in science; children gain a sense of freedom and belonging in a space where nature provides the resources.  Imagination kicks in and play turns into creation and the building blocks of cognition and reflection. 
 
Our Forest School programme crosses over into many areas of the curriculum whilst teaching boys the importance of looking after the environment. We build a knowledge and respect for common trees, wildflowers and birds in our grounds and an understanding of seasonal changes. 
 
Boys learn how to use simple tools and to assess risk to stay safe.  This helps them grow stronger physically, more confident in the outside world and able to work as part of a team.