Forest School is different to 'outdoor education' because it is a long-term, sustainable approach to outdoor learning which builds confidence and independence in children through the exploration of, and experiences in the natural world. It is not just a one off outdoor activity with specific objectives in mind. It is a set of regular visits to a particular outdoor area where children develop personal, social and other skills which have been proven to enhance their learning.

It has been defined as "an inspirational process that offers children regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence through hands-on learning in a woodland environment".

By introducing Forest School sessions at Stourview we aim to nurture an understanding and respect for natural places where children experience nature at first hand through a series of engaging and achievable tasks.

The Forest School experience brings learning to life and improves a child’s ability to work cooperatively whilst also offering them opportunities to take risks, make choices and initiate their own styles of learning.

Forest School promotes healthy motivation and enables individuals to fulfil their own goals. It permits staff to take a step back and observe the children in order to then heighten, enhance and inspire them to achieve through careful scaffolding and facilitating. This can then be extended into the classroom by bringing outdoor learning experiences inside.

 "Nurturing hearts and minds. Building futures"

Our Forest School planning ensures that every session is purposeful, safe, and rooted in children’s needs and development. By carefully designing activities in advance, we create opportunities for children to explore, take managed risks, build resilience, and develop confidence in a natural environment.

Effective planning allows us to link outdoor experiences to key skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional wellbeing, while remaining flexible to follow children’s interests and the changing seasons. It also ensures that health and safety, inclusion, and accessibility are fully considered so that every child can participate and thrive.

Forest School is not just outdoor learning,  it is a long-term approach that nurtures curiosity, independence, and a lifelong connection to nature. Thoughtful planning helps us make the most of this powerful learning experience, supporting children’s growth both academically and personally.