We are delighted to offer Forest School sessions here at Great Whelnetham, run by a qualified Forest School leader, using two designated areas on our school field.
What is Forest School?
Forest School originates from Scandinavia and started in the UK in 1993, where it has since grown from strength to strength. It involves learning outside on a regular basis so that children develop a deep and meaningful connection to nature. They play and explore and are supported with their risk taking. It is holistic; the children develop socially, emotionally, spiritually, physically and intellectually. Forest School sessions will help children become healthy, resilient, creative and independent learners.
What will happen at Forest School?
During a typical session, we welcome the children into the Forest School area, make our safety agreements and play games to establish our boundaries and build relationships. The session will be semi-structured with opportunities for children to develop their knowledge of the woodland environment, their understanding of how to keep safe, and their skills in making things from natural resources. The children will have an opportunity to play games together, participate in planned tasks, as well as initiating their own play and exploration. Each week there will be a structured activity for children to do if they wish; activities may include den building, natural arts and crafts, low ropes and balance bridges, mud sculpting, bug hunts and campfire cooking.
What our children say about Forest School:
'I love the cooking on the campfire, playing with the ropes and building dens with sticks.'
'We love bird hunting and protecting the bugs!'
'I like making tools with the sticks.'
'You can be free and spend time with your friends and have fun!'
'I love Forest School because I love nature!'