Forest School
At St Chad’s, we are very passionate about the great outdoors. In September 2023, thanks to a successful funding application, we were able to establish our own on-site Forest School (located on our school field) and launch our 'Nurture through Nature' programme.
Forest School is a unique approach to education that focuses on outdoor, child-led learning. It helps children develop in many areas, supporting both their learning and well-being. Forest School takes place outdoors, in nature. Children spend time exploring, discovering, and learning about the natural world around them.
Why is Forest School Important?
Forest School is based on the idea that children learn best when they are free to explore their surroundings and follow their natural curiosity. Here are some reasons why Forest School is important for your child:
Supports Children's Well-Being
Being in nature helps children feel calm and relaxed. Studies show that time spent outdoors can reduce stress, improve mood, and help children feel more connected to the world around them. This is especially important in today’s world, where children are spending an increasing amount of time indoors.
Encourages Independence and Confidence
At Forest School, children are given opportunity to decide what to explore, what to build, and what to try. This freedom helps them grow in confidence. They learn to solve problems on their own, which helps them become more independent.
Develops Social Skills and Teamwork
Children work together in groups, learning to communicate and solve problems as a team. They share ideas, listen to each other, and support one another in their tasks. This helps them build important social skills that are useful both in and out of the classroom.
Improves Learning in All Subjects
Forest School gives children the chance to learn in a different way. For example, they can explore numbers by counting leaves or use language skills to describe what they see in nature. This hands-on approach helps children understand subjects like science, maths, and geography in a fun and meaningful way.
Promotes Physical Health
Outdoor learning involves a lot of movement. Children run, jump, climb, and build, which helps keep their bodies healthy. Physical activity is good for their growth and overall health.
Teaches Respect for Nature
Children learn about the environment and how to care for it. By exploring nature, they understand the importance of looking after the world around them. This helps them grow into responsible adults who care about the planet.
Forest School Clothing
Forest School operates all year round and an integral part of this adventure is that children will experience the outdoors in all weathers. With the exception of very high winds and thunder storms, please assume that your child will be outside when taking part in Forest School during their allocated sessions. To help your child stay comfortable and focused on their learning, please ensure that your child comes into school dressed in the suitable clothing for the time of year. We recommend layers so that your child can add/remove clothing depending on how warm/cold they are feeling.
Winter months:
- Puddle suit
- Warm coat
- Long-sleeve top
- Hoodie
- Jogging bottoms/leggings (no denim)
- Thick socks
- Hat, gloves and scarf
- Wellington boots (please bring these into school in a named carrier bag)Sunnier months
Sunnier Months:
- Puddle suit (in the event of rain)
- T-shirt
- Jogging bottoms/leggings (no shorts due to the long grass
- Sun hat
- Sun cream (please apply at home before bringing your child to school)
- Wellington boots (please bring these into school in a named carrier bag
- You may wish to apply insect repellent before bringing your child into school