Forest School

Sidcot  Forest School is a unique educational experience encouraging and inspiring children through small achievable tasks in a woodland environment.  It is non-competitive and develops children through exploration, enabling them to reach their potential at their pace.   This relaxed approach, where no-one can win or lose, allows them to grow in confidence and self-esteem.

The majority of the Early Learning Goals within the Foundation Stage are covered at Forest School, and it is, therefore, an integral part of the school curriculum.  Forest School sessions are planned weekly ensuring the children’s interests and ideas are progressed through the ever-evolving programme.

During a Forest School session, it is likely that the planned session will change course through child-led questionning, as something interests or engages the children. The Forest School leader will quickly assess their interest and guide the children so that educational learning goals are met. 

At Sidcot, the Forest School yearly programme begins every September at Newcombe Wood (on Sidcot grounds) with weekly sessions, regardless of the weather conditions.

The programme begins, for Nursery and Reception children, with very simple activities and gradually becomes more challenging as the year progresses. For example, the year may start with the children making crowns from their finds on the forest floor and progress to learning how to prepare and light a fire safely… and toast marshmallows!

Throughout the year the children are observed in the wood and sessions evaluated so that Forest School continues to be relevant and appropriate for each child at Sidcot. This allows every individual to enjoy his or her time at Forest School, whist discovering for themselves the wonders of the natural world.