Forest School is a specialised, child-centred learning approach which happens over a period of regular sessions throughout the year. It is a time for play-based, explorative learning incorporating opportunities for supported risk-taking and learning new skills. Amongst other things, children develop confidence, their self-esteem, team-building and problem-solving skills through hands-on experiences in a natural setting.

At Heage Primary School, we are blessed with some of the biggest outdoor space in the county! During our Forest School sessions we mainly use our area of woodland which is nestled in the far corner of our site and we also use the field and specially built outdoor classroom. Our woodland area is a wonderfully diverse habitat allowing the children to learn about, and respect, nature. It also contains pathways, our fire circle and mud kitchen.

All our children take part in Forest School sessions for one term during the academic year. The time of year they visit will change as the children move up the school so they get the chance to experience the woods during different seasons and weather! Our Reception children experience Forest School for two terms.  In addition, we are fortunate that our teachers are very creative at using the outdoor environment at other times for the curriculum lessons.

There is no such thing as a typical Forest School session as that all depends how the children choose to take their learning that day. However, each session usually starts with a team game, followed by an introduction to the adult-led skill they may or may not choose to engage with. The skill could be learning to use a different tool, fire lighting and cooking, den building and knot tying. The children are then free to choose what they do - the possibilities are endless and this is the best time to see the magic of Forest School unfold! The session usually finishes with a period of reflection, appreciation and mindfulness in order to instil a love of nature, the outdoors and all its benefits.

We go to the woods for our Forest School sessions in all weathers so it is important that everyone is dressed sensibly - layers for warmth and waterproofs to stay dry. It is important that the clothes we wear are easily cleaned as we can get VERY dirty!

Mrs Clark is our fully trained Forest School leader and she is supported by the class teachers, teaching assistants and a team of invaluable volunteers in every session to ensure everyone safety for everyone. If you have any questions about Forest School, feel free to contact Mrs Clark via the school office email info@heage.derbyshire.sch.uk with 'FAO Mrs Clark' in the title and she will answer any queries as quickly as possible.