Forest School Activity Sessions

Forest School is an approach to learning that takes children into the great outdoors on a regular basis to explore the natural environment. This type of learning complements the national curriculum and has many benefits which encourages children’s development on many other levels i.e. Physical, Emotional, Social, Spiritual & Intellectual.

The weekly sessions are based at Whatman Park, the location is extremely conveniently located within walking distance and provides 18 acres of parkland and mature woodland to explore; providing the perfect space for outdoor learning on a consistent basis all year round during the changing seasons.

Facilities include:

  • The Jolly Roger toddler play area
  • A raised board walk that runs through the trees
  • Two nature reserves

Outdoor learning benefits your child by:

  • developing healthy and active lifestyles through physical activity, freedom and movement, and promoting a sense of well-being
  • accessing experiences that are unique to outdoors, such as direct contact with the weather and the seasons
  • understanding and respecting the natural world, the environment and the interdependence of humans, animals, plants, and lifecycles
  • supporting children’s problem-solving skills and nurturing their creativity and active imagination
  • learning to take on new challenges and assess risks in a safe environment.

Appropriate Outdoor Clothing

Forest school activity sessions runs all year round, whatever the weather so ensuring you have the right kit is essential for your little ones.

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SUMMER CLOTHING

  • Comfortable trousers – this could be jogging bottoms or leggings.
  • A T-shirt – this could be short sleeved however long sleeve is often better for protection against sunburn, scratches & bug bites.
  • A Jumper – this is good to have just in case, preferably a light weight one that zips up (this makes it easier to get on an off)
  • Socks
  • Wellies or Sturdy Shoes – Something you do not mind getting muddy, so definitely not sandals or flip flops.
  • Unlined Waterproofs – For the wet summer days, having an unlined rain set will come in handy
  • A Sun Hat – Make sure to get one that will stay on well.
  • SPARES – Always pack a spare set of clothing in the summer, especially socks & trousers (we would recommend extra underwear if your little one is toilet training too!)

SPRING / AUTUMN CLOTHIING

  • Waterproof Rain Set – this could be a puddle suit or separates. it is a good combination to have a light 100% waterproof jacket with unlined waterproof dungarees or trousers.
  • Comfortable trousers – this could be jogging bottoms or leggings and avoid denim.
  • A T-shirt – long sleeve is best for Spring & Autumn.
  • A Jumper – This can vary, on colder days opt for a warm fleecy jumper, and warmer days pack a light fleece.
  • Light Warm Jacket – A fleece zip up jacket is much easier for changing into. This is for the backpack just in case it is a colder day.
  • Two Pairs of Socks – wear a thin cotton sock on the bottom with thick wool or bed socks on top. The top layer can depend on the weather.
  • Wellies or Sturdy Shoes – Something you do not mind getting muddy.
  • SPARES – Always pack a spare set of clothing, especially socks & trousers (pack extra if your little one is toilet training too!)

WINTER CLOTHING

  • Base Layers – Thermal vest, thermal long-sleeve top & thermal leggings.
  • Warm Trousers – Fleece or warm tracksuit bottoms
  • Long Sleeve Top
  • A Warm Jumper – A fleece or wool jumper
  • Warm Jacket – A fleece zip up jacket is much easier for changing into. This is for the backpack just in case it is a colder day.
  • Hat, Scarf & Warm Gloves
  • Two Pairs of Socks – wear a thin cotton sock on the bottom with thick wool or thermal socks on top.
  • Wellies or Boots – Something that has a thermal liner will help keep your little ones warm.
  • Winter Waterproofs – A fleece lined puddle suit or fleece lined two-piece rain set to wear over the layers listed above. We would also recommend waterproof mittens!
  • SPARES – Always pack a spare set of clothing, extra jumpers, socks & trousers (pack extra if your little one is toilet training too!)

Children must attend forest school activity sessions with their own backpack which contains a water bottle and spare clothes inside.