Forest School at FANS

All children have a block of weekly visits during an academic year, usually 6. These are led by a teacher who is accredited by the Forest School Association.

Forest School connects children with nature and the changing seasons, benefiting them and the local area and wildlife as they learn to love, appreciate, and take care of our natural world.

2 children use magnifying glasses to exam the grass and the creatures in it

In all our teaching, children take risks and overcome challenges.

Forest School sessions give children lots of risks and challenges.

When they overcome challenges, children develop self-confidence. They improve self-esteem, emotional literacy, and social skills. They also get stronger, both physically and mentally.

3 children place a snail safely back on the bark of a tree — Learning care of snails

Forest School increases problem-solving skills, vocabulary, and understanding.

a child wearing waterproof dungarees uses a hand-held drill to make a hole in a piece of wood — Drilling skills

Both Church Hill and Low Hall have an accredited Forest School leader.

Forest School activities take place in our bespoke Forest School areas...

Sunny day. In the foreground is the lily pond, covered with a domed black metal cage. In the background are an apple tree, a black compost bin, and the covered bench where children sit to start their Forest School lessons — Low Hall Nursery School Forest School Area

In all weather (just about)...

A child wearing a beanie, matching red raincoat and dungarees, and wellies does their work sitting on a rattan mat under a tent sail in the drizzle.