Forest School
We are proud to be one of the few Forest Schools in Henley.
The philosophy of Forest Schools is to encourage and inspire individuals of any age through positive outdoor experiences. The children find Forest School an enriching experience and fully embrace the outdoor classroom.
To encourage and inspire individuals of any age through positive outdoor experiences
What is Forest School?
The nature of Forest School provides a ‘hands-on’ approach to learning and appeals to all, enabling opportunities for learners with kinaesthetic, visual or auditory preferences to respond with success. Children initiate their own activities therefore directing their own learning. The use of teacher observation is crucial in this process and intervention occurs only to enhance the learning opportunities explored by each child.
Taking part in Forest School can:
Increase self-esteem and self-confidence
As Teachers we see this especially when the children try something new and feel pleased, showing pride with their personal achievement.
Improve social skills
The children develop an increased awareness of the consequences of actions on other people, they learn to undertake activities with others either by sharing tools and tasks, or by taking part in co-operative play.
Contribute to the development of language and communication skills
We see a development of more sophisticated uses of both written and spoken language that is prompted by the visual and other sensory experiences of a child taking part in Forest School.
Improve physical motor skills
Children develop physical stamina and improve their gross motor skills – the physical skills and co-ordination allowing the free and easy movement around the Forest School site, as well as the development of fine motor skills – the effective use of tools and the ability to make structures and objects (e.g. shelters, dens or creative art projects).
Improve motivation and concentration
Our children are very keen to participate in exploratory, learning and play activities. They extend their ability to focus on specific tasks and to concentrate for extended periods of time.
Contribute to children’s knowledge and understanding of the environment
We see the children develop a respect for the environment and an interest in their natural surroundings; making observations and insights into natural phenomena such as seasonal change and the ability to identify different species of flora and fauna.
FOREST SCHOOL GROUNDS GALLERY
PUPILS ENJOYING FOREST SCHOOL GALLERY
