Back2Basics

Our Mission ‘…get them off their phones and out of their homes. Whatever the weather…‘

Our forest school sessions take place in a safe and secure learning environment suitable for people of all ages and abilities and our Forest School Lead enables the environment to facilitate its learners. This is achieved through a number of approaches including, the undertaking of daily risks assessments to ensure health and safety standards, and through the use of a range of resources provided by the school to enhance the learners experience. The forest school approach supports learners to build self-esteem and confidence. We encourage these characteristics by treating each learner individually, adopting different strategies to support learning for each person. It is important to us that our learners feel happy and secure in our environment with their voice listened to.

Modeling appropriate behavior is critical and we want our learners to respect both the environment and everyone they interact with. With that in mind we expect respectful behavior and will not tolerate anything less. Further information can be found in our positive behavior policy.

All forest school sessions including our holiday club sessions will offer children the opportunity to learn and set their very own small campfires overseen by the Forest School Lead. Children will whittle sticks using tools to suit their ability and can use these to toast marshmallows over the campfire or if preferred children can just sit and watch their fire to feel totally present. Tools to whittle sticks can range from a potato peeler to a sheaf knife, the specific tool used is dependent on each individuals ability and safety is carefully managed. Children will also learn to use a range of hand tools whilst engaging in bush craft activities. From working together as a team sawing and chopping wood, to sitting alone carving butter knives, bowls and even spoons! This risk-led play empowers children as they begin to learn new skills.

Den building is a favorite activity for children and working in teams’ bonds children’s friendships. Working alongside one another to collect materials for their structures also increases physical fitness and health. Children also begin to show awareness for one another and for the natural environment around them. The pleasure they get when they successfully construct a den is wonderful to see! Imaginations are stimulated as they figure out what their den is! Is it a fort or a fairy house!?

Free flowing around the forest, navigating and strategizing over fallen branches/tree trunks also increases physical development… think of exploring the forest as an alternative to PE in a school setting! We also support children to learn about the different species of trees within Moorgrove Wood and provide handouts for children to take home.

Stay and Play Sessions: These sessions are slightly more structured than for the older children and begin with and singing the ‘good morning’ song which introduces everyone to each other. This is followed by a brief talk where the Forest School Lead will explain the sessions activities. Each session is planned in advance with consideration given to the EYFS key themes. Every session offers the opportunity to explore the different textures, sights and sounds that all make up the forest environment as well as offering a friendly atmosphere in which children and parents alike can meet new friends. Sessions end with everyone sitting together again and enjoying hot chocolate/milk together along with a story.

Finally, all children will feel the benefits and advantages of being outdoors and away from their screens for 6 hours a day!