At South Lake Primary school our Forest School provides a nurturing space that supports our children’s wellbeing by providing positive, outdoor child centred experiences in a natural setting. 

The Forest School philosophy promotes holistic, long-term, child-centered learning in an outdoor, natural environment. It fosters self-esteem, confidence, and independence through supported risk-taking, hands-on experiences, and the development of strong relationships with nature and peers. Unlike one-off outdoor trips, it emphasizes ongoing sessions where children direct their own learning and exploration, encouraging a lifelong love of nature.

Children are active, take ownership of their learning and develop their self-esteem through a variety of activities.  The children work together to problem solve in many different ways, taking into account one another’s ideas and learn to work together to achieve a positive outcome.  The children have the opportunity to experience nature in a hands on, safe, secure and supported environment but also have the chance to manage their own risks and set their own challenges.

We have our own wooded area on the school grounds where we have Forest School sessions; exploring, building, climbing, story telling, making art and creating fire!