Forest School
At Westvale Park we recognise that our children learn in different ways and we are passionate about providing a wide variety of opportunities that will inspire them to become confident learners. We are on a journey to become a Forest School which will provide enrichment opportunities and inspiration to help children develop writing and maths skills in a real-life context.
Principles of Forest School
- It is a long-term process of regular sessions, rather than a one-off or infrequent visits; the cycle of planning, observation, adaptation and review links each session.
- It takes place in a woodland or natural environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.
- It uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for being, development and learning.
- It aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
- It offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
- It is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.
Safety at Forest School
- School Safety is very important at Forest School.
- Clear safety procedures are in place
- Activities are carefully risk assessed
- Forest School leaders are trained in first aid in an outdoor setting
- Children are closely supervised
What are the benefits?
- It builds children’s confidence and self-esteem as they are responsible for making their own decisions and are carefully supported to achieve this.
- It supports all areas of the curriculum in an exciting, hands-on way.
- It develops communication and social skills. It develops knowledge, skills, interests and understanding through practical, hands-on experiences.
- Children enjoy meeting and overcoming challenges at their own pace.