At St. John’s, Forest School provides a unique approach to education that combines outdoor learning, in our extensive forested grounds, with hands-on experiences in a natural environment. This style of learning provides opportunities for children to develop their physical, social, and emotional skills, while building self-confidence and a sense of responsibility.
During our Forest School sessions, students participate in a variety of activities including wildlife observation, plant identification, problem-solving and team-building exercises, and creative play. These activities are designed to foster a love of learning and encourage children to explore the world around them in a safe and engaging way.
One of the key principles of Forest School is that it is child-led, meaning that pupils are encouraged to take an active role in their own learning. This helps to develop critical thinking skills, as well as a sense of autonomy and independence. Forest Schools also emphasise the importance of taking risks and trying new things, allowing children to build resilience and overcome challenges in a supportive environment.
The natural environment also plays an important role in Forest School. Children are encouraged to interact with the world around them, learning about the environment and how to care for it. This helps to instill a sense of respect for the environment, as well as a deep appreciation for the world we live in.
In summary, Forest School offers a unique and exciting approach to education that combines hands-on learning with outdoor experiences. This style of learning has been shown to have numerous benefits for children, including increased confidence, improved critical thinking skills, and a love of learning.