Forest School

Our Forest School is a special part of the week where children can explore, discover and learn outdoors in a calm, natural environment. Set within our school grounds, Forest School gives children the chance to enjoy hands‑on activities such as building dens, exploring nature, making natural crafts, enjoying a fire pit, digging, climbing, and using simple tools safely. Most importantly, it’s a place where learning feels fun, relaxed and meaningful.

Forest School follows a child‑led approach, which means activities are adapted to suit each child’s interests, needs and strengths. Children are encouraged to explore at their own pace, make choices and take manageable risks, helping them to grow in confidence and independence. For many of our pupils, learning outdoors allows them to make strides towards personal development targets and their EHCP outcomes.

For our children, Forest School plays an important role in developing key life skills. The outdoor environment naturally supports communication, whether that’s through shared activities, turn‑taking, problem‑solving together or using communication aids in real‑life situations. Children are encouraged to express preferences, make requests and interact with others in ways that feel comfortable for them.

Forest School also supports pupils' emotional wellbeing and self‑regulation. Time in nature can help children feel calmer, more grounded and ready to learn. Activities such as planting, digging, mud play or sensory exploration also help develop physical skills, concentration and resilience.

Above all, Forest School is about nurturing the whole child — celebrating small steps, building self‑belief and helping every child feel connected, capable and valued in a safe outdoor space.

Have a look at photos of our Forest School in action and look out for our blog to see the latest news from the forest.