FAQ for Forest School
What is Forest School?
Forest School is an opportunity for your child to learn outside; not just about nature and the environment but also to be able to develop their social skills, language, self confidence, self awareness and independence.
When does it happen?
One Reception class have a session in the afternoon 12.30-3.00pm, either Tuesday or Thursday every week for five weeks. Then it is the turn of the other Reception class and so it continues throughout the year.
Years 1 & 2 have Forest School sessions as part of our Fantastic Friday afternoons.
Is it part of the school curriculum?
Yes. We are really pleased to be able to offer Forest School as part of our curriculum as we believe it has an extremely positive impact on the children’s learning in all other areas.
Do the children enjoy it?
Yes! Ask any child at the school and you will get the same answer – ‘Forest School is fun!’
What do I need to do?
Please can you make sure your child has a pair of Wellington boots in school all the time. You will also need to buy a Forest School outfit which will keep your child dry and protect them and their clothes. At the end of the Forest School session your child will come home in their Forest School clothes. These will probably need washing and will need to be brought back in time for the next session.
In the winter the children may need extra clothes eg long johns/leggings and they will definitely need gloves, hat, scarf and extra socks (please make sure that their wellies are big enough to accommodate the extra socks!).
In the summer please send in a long-sleeved T-shirt and long trousers or jogging bottoms and a sun hat so that your child stays protected but cool.
Where is Forest School?
We have two sites. Our ‘Home Site’ is on our school premises at the back of the library and music room. Our second site is at Iver Heath Junior School.
Are the children safe?
Yes, very much so! It is obviously our top priority. We take half the class (15 children) each session with three fully trained Forest School leaders. The children also spend a lot of time learning the rules and how to keep safe.