Forest School Overview:

At Whitehouse Common Primary School, we are always keen to maximise our use of the outdoor environment. As part of this offer, we provide Forest School sessions for all pupils from Nursery through to Year 6. Nursery and Reception have weekly Forest School sessions throughout the year as part of their continuous provision, while pupils from Year 1 – 6 access a half term block of Forest School sessions at differing points within the academic year. Pupils access their Forest School sessions in the woodland environments around the school site and will experience and take part in hands-on activities; use an increasing range of tools; build a variety of shelters; and play games in the outdoor environment.

The ethos of Forest School:

Forest School is an inspirational process that offers children opportunities to achieve, develop confidence and self-esteem, through hands-on learning experiences in a local woodland environment. By introducing Forest School sessions at Whitehouse Common Primary School, we aim to nurture an understanding and respect for natural places where children experience nature at first hand through a series of engaging and achievable tasks. This forms part of our commitment to support your child’s wider personal development.

The Forest School experience brings learning to life and improves a child’s ability to work co-operatively whilst also offering them opportunities to take risks, make choices and initiate learning. The sessions also allow time for peer mentoring and for the children to reflect on their experiences.

Themes:

Pupils from Years 1 – 6 access their Forest School sessions in a half term block, where activities and tasks are linked to an overarching theme:

Letters are sent out ahead of the block of sessions, identifying the dates on which sessions will take place. Pupils are expected to bring a Forest School kit on those days. This kit list is below and is also on the letter you will receive ahead of time.

What will my child need?

Forest School sessions will take place in all weathers (barring storms) and therefore please ensure that pupils bring the following suitable clothing for all sessions:

Please also send your child with a carrier bag for muddy footwear to be brought home in.