Here at Thomas Barnes Primary School we are very lucky to have Hopwas woods on our door step and a wonderful woodland area that we use for Forest School sessions.

Miss Green is our qualified level 3 Forest School leader and teacher and leads all sessions supported by Miss Bland.

We are passionate about outdoor learning and believe in the importance of children’s contact with nature. Forest School takes learning outdoors, this may include exploring the woods, collecting natural materials, building dens, having controlled fires or simply taking a lesson outdoors away from the classroom. 

As part of our schools personal development, we aim for every child to access a Forest School session each year. We believe that it is important for all children to experience learning in a natural, outdoor environment which enhances their personal, social and emotional development.

Forest School sessions provide a safe, natural and fun environment for children to develop many skills. Some of the benefits include:

• Confidence
• Communication
• Independence

Forest School helps children to grow in confidence as a result of the freedom, time and space they are given in their learning.

• Social skills

Activities such as sharing tools and participating in play help teach the children to work together as a group, which strengthens their bonds and social ties.

•  Physical skills

The increase in outdoor activity is bound to have a positive physical impact. Not only does the development of physical stamina improve but also gross and fine motor skills.

•  Communication

The sensory experiences provided by Forest School’s helps prompt language development. Improving communication skills has a positive effect on a child’s self-esteem and is a crucial part of their development.

• Curiosity
• Risk Taking

Children are also encouraged to take supported risks in order to develop their resilience, creativity and curiosity.

Forest School Curriculum

Types of activities will include planting, controlled fire making, tree climbing, shelter building, saw, drill and knife work and transient art.

Each year group will take part in 6 forest school sessions each year.

Autumn 1 - Year 1

Autumn 2 - Year 2

Spring 1- Year 3

Spring 2-Year 5

Summer 1-Year 4

Summer 2-Year 6