Forest School

Outdoor Learning Leader: Mrs Dunkerley

At Holme JI School we offer a broad and balanced curriculum to develop the whole child. Forest School will offer the same broad range of experiences designed to develop the whole child; physically, intellectually, emotionally, socially, spiritually and morally. We aim to challenge and support the children to try out their ideas, work together with their peers to solve problems and conquer challenges. The sessions involve practical hands-on activities.

Forest School strongly encourages participant–led learning, so as the weeks progress, learners are given more freedom and responsibility to explore their interests and therefore initiate and direct their own learning.

Forest School is suited to all ages and abilities. The aim of Forest School is to develop the person as a whole. It is particularly suited to people who have a low sense of self-worth and who struggle for various reasons to learn in a traditional classroom setting. Completing small achievable tasks, coupled with genuine praise from Leaders, helps to boost confidence and self-esteem.

For children at school, attitudes to learning are improved as they find that learning can be fun and enjoyable. This new positive outlook is then transferred to the classroom where they are found to be more motivated and able to concentrate better.

Forest School can also:

• Develop physical abilities and help participants to stay active and healthy.
• Heighten self-awareness and improve emotional and social skills.
• Promote co-operative and group working.
• Encourage participants to take care of themselves and others.
• Foster care, appreciation and respect for wildlife and wild places.
• Broaden knowledge and understanding of the natural world.

Risk Assessments