Forest School originated
in Sweden in the 1950’s and was introduced in Britain in
the late 1990’s. It is an inspirational process that offers regular
opportunities to appreciate and enjoy the outdoors. Learning occurs in a
relaxed environment using all of the senses. Choices can be made and risks
understood and taken. Forest School happens all year round and
so children should wear warm, waterproof clothing. The ethos
of Forest School is that learners should be allowed time and
space to explore, develop skills and interests and understanding through
practical, hands on experience. Forest School promotes good health and
fitness and an awareness of good hygiene. It helps children’s social and
communication development as they work together problem solving, developing
motor-skills and coordination in a fun and relaxed environment. Children also
learn a sense of personal responsibility and respect for their environment as
well as developing their confidence, self-esteem and independence.
Forest School was chilly again this week but the children were well wrapped up and had fun using a variety of logs and sticks to make a tree house which was then changed into a boat! Some children enjoyed digging and found an enormous worm which they took pride in showing everyone. Miss Aust engaged the children with different activities to assess risk and recorded how the children perceived different situations which could be potentially risky (e.g. barbed wire, climbing trees, using tools etc.) We all enjoyed hot chocolate which warmed us up!