Welcome to Forest School at Stoke Prior First School

The Ethos of Forest School

Our Forest School ethos is to provide children with learning opportunities in the outdoor environment, in order to enhance their overall well-being, whilst also enabling them to build their confidence and self-esteem. We encourage and support children to challenge themselves to reach their full potential. Every session will be held on our school site, yet every child’s experience will change and be different. 

Through exploration and discovery, children are able to enjoy and self-initiate their own learning. Sessions have planned activities for the children to access if they want to, but they are free to choose what they take part in and to create their own games. This child-led experience encourages the development of imagination, it builds self-esteem and creates a desire to understand and learn. The combination of freedom and responsibility has been particularly beneficial to children with little confidence, or those with challenging behaviour. We set children small manageable tasks at which they can succeed and receive genuine praise.

Children are able to take calculated risks in a controlled environment. The high adult to child ratio means that children can experience types of activities that are often prohibited, such as lighting and cooking on fires, making shelters and using tools. 

Forest School at Stoke Prior First School

At Stoke Prior First School, we go out in all weathers, all year round, exploring and learning about the seasons and environmental changes.  Children will need to provide their own waterproofs and bring their own wellies throughout the seasons, and warm socks, scarves, hats and gloves are needed in cold weather. We have some wellies that can be borrowed, or you can exchange a smaller pair of wellies for a larger pair, although the size choice is limited. Children wear their own clothes, appropriate clothing for the seasons - long sleeves and trousers are recommended to prevent stings and bites.

All children in the school will have an opportunity to access Forest School, as we recognise and value its importance.

Each class will have 6 afternoon sessions, in a half-term block, of forest school across the year from September 2024-July 2025.

Forest School Fun, whatever the weather !!

Our outdoor infrared camera has captured some amazing videos of some very special visitors. Enjoy.

Nighttime Badger.m4v