Forest School

What is Forest School?

Forest School is an educational approach that emphasizes outdoor, nature-based learning. It focuses on holistic development through regular sessions in natural settings, such as woodlands.

Here are some key aspects of Forest School:

• Child-Centred Learning: It prioritises the interests and needs of the children, allowing them to explore and learn at their own pace.
• Holistic Growth: It supports physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development through hands-on experiences.
• Risk-Taking and Problem-Solving: Children are encouraged to take supported risks, which helps build confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills.
• Connection to Nature: It fosters a deep connection to the natural world, promoting environmental awareness and stewardship.

How often do children learn outside at Meonstoke CE Infant School?

Every day! 

At Meonstoke CE Infant School, we believe that outdoor learning is crucial for the holistic development of young children. Engaging with nature not only enhances their physical health but also significantly boosts their mental well-being. Research indicates that children who participate in outdoor learning are happier, healthier, and more motivated to learn which is why we often incorporate learning outside into our usual curriculum practice. We also believe that this approach makes education more inclusive, catering to diverse learning styles and needs.

Explicit Forest School sessions are led by our qualified Forest School leader, Mrs Stephanie Perkins, on Friday afternoons. During these sessions our pupils can engage in a range of independent activities such as bug hunting, den building, digging and creating art from natural resources as well as participating in the activities modelled by Mrs Perkins. Modelled activities may include but are not limited to craft, tool use, fire lighting, cooking and building objects.