Woodland Learning

We are extremely pleased to run a comprehensive Woodland Learning programme throughout the school. It takes place in the woodland adjacent to the car park, and on occasions in other local outdoor spaces, whatever the weather! Our programme is tailored to meet the needs of the children as they grow in confidence, skills and understanding. The ethos of Woodland Learning allows learners the time and space to develop skills, interests and understanding through practical, hands-on experiences. It also allows practitioners to step back and observe the children in order to then encourage and inspire individuals to achieve, through careful scaffolding and facilitating.

Activities increase week on week and may include:

• Games
• Cooking and eating wild food
• Storytelling
• Natural art activities
• Use of tools (if skills and behaviour indicators secured)
• Exploring
• Nature watching and bug hunting
• Climbing, rolling
• Practical woodland skills (e.g. Willow weaving)
• Building dens
• Exploring the stream
• Time to be quiet, reflect or talk

Some of the activities the children may participate in are ‘higher-risk activities’ (such as campfire cooking or tool use). However, these activities are not available to the children until certain behaviours and boundaries are established. Children are encouraged and supported in recognising and managing risk for themselves, through real life situations and experiences.

Please make sure that your child has appropriate clothing for the weather, for example wellingtons in the wet, or stout trainers in the dry. We suggest a pair of jogging bottoms and a long-sleeved top as a base layer, adding layers according to the weather. Please ensure your child has a waterproof coat with them just in case there is rain.