St Cuthbert's now has it's very own 'Forest School'!

What is a Forest School?

The Forest School approach initiated from Scandinavia, where learning in the outdoors has been a key part of their curriculum since the 1950's. The use of outdoor woodland allows children to develop independence, confidence and self-esteem. The results of incorporating the outdoor environment into early education are overwhelming positive.

Mrs Georgy and Miss Mears are Level 3 qualified leaders. When the children are in Forest Schools they will experience a variety of different games and activities which will support their learning. They will, at some point, cook over an open fire, use tools, make dens, leave trails, go on scavenger hunts, make environmental art and lots, lots more. Children will help to plant hedges, trees, flowers and other native plants as well as construct bird houses and create activities and instructions for younger children.

Forest School Ethos

‘Forest School is an inspirational process that offers ALL learners regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands-on learning experiences in a woodland or natural environment with trees.’ Forest School Association

Forest School Principles

• FS is a long-term process of regular sessions, rather than a one-off or infrequent visits; the cycle of planning, observation, adaptation and review links each session.
• FS takes place in a woodland or natural environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.
• FS uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for being, development and learning.
• FS aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
• FS offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
• FS is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.

Forest School Rules & The Countryside Code

The Countryside Code

When using both areas, staff and children will adhere to The Countryside Code:

• Consider the local community and other people enjoying the outdoors;
• Leave gates and property as you find them and follow paths unless wider access is available;
• Leave no trace of your visit and take your litter home;
• Keep dogs under effective control;
• Plan ahead and be prepared;

First Aid Kit List:

• Sterile Wipes x 5
• Plasters of various sizes
• Conforming Bandages x 3
• Non adhesive square bandages x 3
• Scissors • Surgical tape
• Hand gel • Disposable gloves x 5
• Safety pins x 5
• Eye dressings x 2
• Water bottle
• Children's specific medication and details

Clothing Requirements

No person will be permitted to go to Forest School without appropriate clothing that will protect them from: extremes of heat or cold, keeping them covered to reduce the likelihood of cuts and scrapes, and that fits appropriately for comfort.

Clothing list:

· Waterproof trousers (provided by school)

· Waterproof coat with a hood. (provided by school- to be warn over pupils own coat.)

· Full length trousers

· Warm boots/ wellies

· Warm Socks

· Gloves and Woolly hat – Cold weather

· Sun hat: that fits well to ensure good visibility– sunny weather

We work on the principle that “there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.”