Having fun, getting muddy and experiencing the outdoor environment is all part of the Forest School adventure. 

“Education is a natural process carried out by the child and is not acquired by listening to words but by                    experiences in the environment.”      Maria Montessori

At West Croft School, we believe every child should have regular and long – term access to a natural environment which provides them with inspirational and challenging outdoor learning opportunities.  

Every child at our school has access to our wonderful woodland and incredible outdoor spaces which we believe fosters their desire to learn and explore through physical engagement.

Our Forest School approach is learner-led, holistic and experiential where children are encouraged to actively take risks, develop upon their independence and resilience. 

Our children are regularly given the opportunity to develop their curiosity, confidence, creativity, personal responsibility as well as a deeply personal knowledge and respect for our environment in natural and wild spaces within the school grounds. 

Every year group has regular opportunities throughout the year at local and further afield environments to deepen their understanding of the world around them. All of these experiences are linked closely with their current project to further enhance children’s love of learning.

All About: 

The Forest Schools concept originated in Scandinavia and was introduced to England in 1980's. It has become widely accepted across the country as a valuable mode of learning for all ages and groups. Forest Schools have now been adopted by schools, early years settings, environmental projects and community groups, run in outdoor locations by trained staff.

Forest Schools allows children the time and space to develop skills, interest and understanding through a range of activities which provide practical, hands-on experiences in a natural environment.

At West Croft we are fortunate to have plenty of outdoor space for children to enjoy. Children are given the opportunity to experience and enjoy learning in an outside ‘classroom’ enhanced by the natural elements of the changing seasons, weather and a natural woodland environment. The Forest School approach is a holistic one underpinned by specialised learning theories. It offers ALL learners the opportunity to develop their self-esteem, emotional resilience, confidence and ability to assess and manage risks as well as teaching them a range of new skills and developing a respect for nature.

Forest School goes ahead in most weather—there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing!  

Our Values: 

Forest School fosters to inspire and focus on developing children's personal, social and emotional development through outdoor woodland experiences. 

At our forest school we are passionate about getting children outside, using natural materials to learn through play while respecting nature and the environment. Children are given the opportunity to develop and experience real life skills by using real tools, lighting fires and taking risks in a safe environment.

What to wear: 

Forest School goes ahead in most weather—there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing!  Having fun, getting muddy and experiencing the outdoor environment is all part of the Forest School adventure. 

• Outdoor/play clothing – they will get muddy – we encourage it!!
• Warm clothing (lots of layers, including extra pairs or thick socks)
• Hat, scarf, gloves (we go out in all weather)
• Wellies are ideal if not, outdoor shoes or old trainers
• Long trousers
• Waterproofs are provided by the school - ( we sit on damp logs and the ground)
• UNIFORM TO CHANGE BACK INTO AT THE END OF THE SESSION 

If the weather is hot:

• Sun cream protection
• Sun hat (preferably one that offers protection to the back of their neck)
• Sensible sturdy close toed shoes.
• Covered legs (no shorts)
• Spare socks
• Wellington boots
• Waterproof clothing Jacket