What is Forest School?
The idea of Forest Schools came from Scandinavia, where outdoor living is part of everyday life (open-air culture, friluftsliv, or free air life). The Scandinavian people believe that nature and movement are key factors in development, and the children there spend at least one day a week outside, in all weathers. They are engaged in learning activities, harnessing the skills that involve respecting the environment whilst looking after themselves and others around them.
It is this belief that underpins the Forest School ethos and curriculum.
At Broomhaugh CofE First School, we are very fortunate to have large, safe grounds with beautiful trees and this will be used as our base for learning. An important part of Forest School is that children experience the outdoor environment in all weathers – with the exception of very high winds or thunder storms. Activities are very much child initiated & led and, using the main curriculum, activities will be tailored to the age and ability of each group. With traditional boundaries removed, the children are encouraged to set their own boundaries and be responsible for each other and their surroundings. The process helps learners to develop socially, emotionally, spiritually, physically and intellectually. They are encouraged to take risks and try things for themselves, developing resilience as they go.
Recent feedback about our Forest School provision:
"It was a total delight to see how confident both Helen and Sarah have become in their delivery of Forest School. The children were a credit to you, polite and so very knowledgeable on a wide range of topics.
With the very happiest of wishes and once again thank you for allowing to have a glimpse of your wonderful school."