Ethos

St Mary’s is in the process of developing our very own forest school within our school grounds.

Forest School is an opportunity for the children of today to get outside and learn in a safe, stimulating environment. It is a holistic approach covering all parts of the curriculum and allowing children to develop all areas of their learning. The children can experience challenge, language acquisition and manage risk, learning ways to solve problems and deal with new situations.

Forest School is a long term process which allows all children to grow in self-confidence as they seek to discover their skills and strengths.

Forest school is a child-led program which promotes individual learning. As leaders and peers facilitate and support learning so the children develop the skills to move their learning forward.

Forest School is a professional practice which allows participants to develop their creativity and imagination, their gross and fine motor skills. The children learn to work collaboratively- developing communication and social skills. 

Activities:

• Building dens
• Fires and cooking
• Mud kitchen
• Games and opportunities for imaginative play
• Natural crafts
• Using tools including knives and bow saws
• Scavenger hunts and adventures
• Rope trails
• Role play & drama