‘Forest School is a child-centred inspirational learning process, that offers opportunities for holistic growth through regular sessions. It is a long-term program that supports play, exploration and supported risk taking. It develops confidence and self-esteem through learner inspired, hands-on experiences in a natural setting.’

Forest School Association

At Gretton, we have been delivering Forest School for more than ten years and greatly value the important role it plays within our curriculum. We strongly believe that Forest School provides children with confidence, lifelong skills and lasting memories that will stay with them well beyond their primary years.

Our Forest School Leader, Mr Bridges, has worked at Gretton for over a decade and is passionate about providing children with exciting outdoor and adventurous learning experiences. Mrs Woolston, who is also Forest School trained, accompanies the Reception class to Forest School each week, helping to support and nurture the children as they explore and learn outdoors.

We are fortunate to have access to a wonderful Forest School site on the slopes of Langley Hill, offering children a rich natural environment in which to explore, discover and develop new skills. Forest School sessions support the holistic growth and development of our children, giving them the freedom to follow their own interests and engage with the environment in meaningful ways. Sessions also provide opportunities to reinforce learning from across the curriculum, including Science, Geography and Design Technology.

Children from every year group take part in Forest School sessions throughout the year. Reception children attend Forest School weekly all year round, allowing them to experience the changing seasons and develop increasing confidence and independence in the outdoor environment. Children in Key Stage 1 and 2, take part in two six-week Forest School blocks each year, in their classes, at different points throughout the seasons.

Sessions are approximately two hours long, allowing children enough time to engage in purposeful and memorable activities, as well as free play, which promotes creativity, teamwork, independence and resilience. Activities may include den building, orienteering and map-reading, flora and fauna identification, craft activities using natural materials, and the supervised use of tools and fire.

“There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing” is a well-known Scandinavian phrase, reflecting the origins of Forest School. As such, we continue sessions in a variety of weather conditions, unless it is unsafe to do so (for example during high winds or thunderstorms). We encourage children to dress appropriately for the conditions, with support from parents and carers, and can provide additional clothing where needed.

Experiencing the outdoors throughout the seasons is an important part of Forest School. Whether it is discovering frozen cobwebs and icicles in winter, splashing through puddles on a rainy day, or enjoying the warmth of a hot chocolate around the fire, these moments help children develop a deeper appreciation, understanding and enjoyment of the natural world.