Forest School Intent – Why We Include Forest School in Our Curriculum

At Green Park Community Primary School, we feel incredibly fortunate to have our very own Forest School on site—a resource that is central to our holistic educational approach. We believe that Forest School is a child-centred, inspirational learning process that supports growth in every dimension: social, emotional, spiritual, physical, and intellectual. By engaging regularly with the outdoors, our children experience play, exploration, and supported risk-taking in a safe, nurturing, and non-judgemental environment. This approach not only develops their confidence and self-esteem but also builds resilience, independence, and strong social skills through collaborative learning. With a dedicated Forest School area and several fully qualified practitioners on staff, we provide a space where every child can solve problems, build self-belief, and develop a lifelong connection with nature.

Forest School Implementation – How We Achieve This

Our Forest School curriculum is carefully structured to ensure that as our children progress through their school years, they know more, do more, and remember more about the natural world. Guided by established Forest School Guidance, our teaching adheres to six key principles:

• Regular Sessions: We ensure a continuous cycle of planning, observation, adaptation, and review, rather than one-off visits.
• Natural Environment: Lessons take place in woodland or natural settings to foster a lasting relationship between the learner and the environment.
• Learner-Centred Processes: We use a variety of approaches to create a supportive community for development and learning.
• Holistic Development: Our sessions promote resilient, confident, independent, and creative learners.
• Supported Risk-Taking: Children are encouraged to take appropriate risks that enhance their learning experiences.
• Qualified Practitioners: Our sessions are led by dedicated Forest School practitioners who continuously develop their professional practice.

Our Teaching Approach

Children participate in Forest School in dedicated blocks of lessons throughout the academic year, ensuring sustained engagement and the opportunity to embed and extend their learning. We cover several key strands that provide practical, hands-on experiences:

• Using Knots: Learning practical skills that build confidence and resourcefulness.
• Den Building: Encouraging creativity and teamwork through constructing shelters.
• Creative Activities: Inspiring imagination through art and craft in the natural setting.
• Recognising Seasonal Change and Observing Weather: Developing an awareness of nature’s cycles.
• Introducing and Using Tools: Ensuring safe, guided exploration of basic tools.
• Campfire Cooking: Combining practical life skills with the joy of outdoor living.
• Recognising Local Flora and Fauna: Fostering a connection with and appreciation of our local biodiversity.

Our Forest School is entirely child-led, allowing each pupil to choose activities that interest them while still ensuring a clear progression of skills and experiences.

Curriculum Impact – How We Know Our Children Are Achieving

While the achievements in Forest School may not be measured in conventional academic terms, our curriculum has clearly defined end points that reflect the growth of attitudes, skills, and knowledge in our pupils. By the end of each key stage, children are expected to have:

• Developed a strong connection with and understanding of the natural world.
• Built confidence in their ability to explore, experiment, and solve problems in a natural setting.
• Enhanced their social and emotional skills through collaborative outdoor experiences.
• Gained practical skills and a sense of independence through regular, hands-on activities.
• Developed an awareness of seasonal change, local flora and fauna, and the importance of sustainability.

At Green Park Community Primary School, we are proud to see our children flourish through Forest School. The experiences they gain here not only enrich their academic journey but also instil a lifelong passion for nature, resilience in the face of challenges, and the ability to thrive in a complex, ever-changing world.

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