Forest School

Pre-Prep children have fl ourished in Forest School this year, outside in all weathers, taking inspiration from the natural world around them. At the beginning of the autumn term, they were introduced to the new Forest School area, hidden behind the Techo house. They spent time sitting around the fi re circle, discussing basic safety rules and sharing knowledge of being safe in the woods. The children have played games, constructed Gruffalo traps, made a Christmas tree and decorated it, and created pieces of natural land art in the style of Andy Goldsworthy. Science was also part of outdoor classroom, in the form of two tin cans and a length of string - a tin can phone. Learning through experimentation and play and all the while developing their confi dence and self-esteem.

They have learnt about the seasons and the changes that each one brings to the natural world. Hibernation was the theme for November - What is it? Why do it? How do you prepare for it? Who does it? In spring they were inspired by Robin William’s quote “Spring is nature’s way of saying ‘Let’s Party!’”, and with this lovely quote in mind, they played lots of fun games. During the colder weather, the theme of the week was shelter, one of the three necessities required for survival. The children talked about the different types of weather a shelter offers protection from, as well as the feeling of protection from harm that a shelter gives. Attributes found in our Pupil Profi le are relevant to Forest School. The children explored the meaning of ‘generous’ through the story of Johnny Appleseed, a hero of American folklore, said to be a barefooted wanderer, who walked ‘West’ planting apple trees from seed across America.

Prep children have also enjoyed the freedom found in Forest School. Participation encourages a unique set of skills, demonstrated in numerous different ways and they have certainly revelled in their time with Mr Dean. Through collaboration, embracing challenge and a wonderful use of their imagination the children have been on a journey of discovery of the natural world that they look forward to every week.

explored the meaning of ‘generous’ through the story of Johnny Appleseed, a hero of American folklore, said to be a barefooted wanderer, who walked ‘West’ planting apple trees from seed across America. Mrs Wilson

Prep children have also enjoyed the freedom found in Forest School. Participation encourages a unique set of skills, demonstrated in numerous different ways and they have certainly revelled in their time with Mr Dean.