We hope you have now seen that we are fundraising for our new community garden project to be located within the school grounds. We thought it would be beneficial to share some information around our Forest School work and the role it serves as part of our curriculum.

Forest School
At Perryfields Primary School we are very fortunate to have a Forest School area situated within the grounds of the school and trained staff keen to further develop our outdoor learning curriculum.  Pupils access this for one half term per academic year which replaces one of their P.E lessons. Parents and carers are notified in advance when their child’s class will be taking part. 

What is Forest School?
Forest School is a child centred learning process providing a learner-inspired, hands-on experience in the natural environment. It is creative and can increase a child’s confidence as they problem solve and learn to safely manage risk. The vision of Forest School is to provide each child with the opportunity to develop their inquisitive mind and to encourage a positive relationship with the natural world. 

Why do we teach Forest School?
There are numerous advantages to taking part in Forest School. It encourages physical activity, improves motor skills and fitness while also enhancing mental well-being through exposure to fresh air and green spaces. In addition to this, children develop problem-solving abilities by engaging in unstructured play and exploration, sparking creativity and critical thinking. 

According to the Forest School Association:
“Forest School creates a safe, non-judgemental, nurturing environment for learners to try stuff out and take risks. It inspires a deep and meaningful connection to the world and an understanding of how the learner fits within it.  Therefore, it helps participants to become healthy, resilient and creative learners”

Forest School activities are endless and can include;
Bug hunting, den building, making bird feeders, planting, safety around a camp fire, investigations, activities linked to theme, problem solving, team games, team building, creating bug hotels, learning and caring for the environment, understanding pollution, how to care for the world around us and much more… 

Comments from children
“Its my favourite day of the week! It gives me a break from writing. I love the campfire and I love eating smors. At my old school we didn’t have a Forest School. In the Forest I know I am safe and the activities are amazing. My favourite time is when its muddy! I love sliding down the slope!
R (Year 3)