Forest Schools

Welcome to Forest School at Healdswood

At Healdswood, not all classrooms have four walls!

We are delighted to announce that all classes will be taking part in Forest Schools this year. Our qualified Forest School leaders are Mrs Bowler and Mrs Llewellyn.

At our school, we are very fortunate to have our own Forest School area on our site, including a very well-equipped outdoor classroom.

What is Forest School?

Forest School is a child-centred, innovative approach to outdoor learning. At Forest School, children are given the opportunity to take part in activities such as, learning to use tools, cooking over an open fire, building shelters and exploring the surrounding environment.

Research has shown that Forest school helps children develop;

Self-regulation skills
Improved problem-solving skills
Feelings of empowerment
Coping skills and resilience
Increased motivation and concentration
Positive relationships with adults and peers
Improved communication and language skills
An intrinsic motivation to learn
Improved mental health and wellbeing
A life-long relationship with nature

"If a child can't learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn."- Ignacio Estrada

"They're not just playing in nature, they are: learning, creating, sensing, believing, relaxing, exploring, observing, wondering, connecting, discovering, appreciating, understanding, experimenting..."- Penny Whitehouse

What does your child need?

For these sessions to run as successfully as possible, it is important that your child has the correct clothing, as we will go to Forest Schools whatever the weather. Your child will need a jumper/fleece, waterproof coat and trousers, wellies, a hat, scarf and gloves in the winter months. During the summer months, they will need wellies, a sun hat and a water bottle. It is best if your child can keep a named pair of wellies at school all week for the duration of the term. We will be outside for the whole session and we may get wet and muddy. This is part of the fun!