The philosophy of Forest School is to encourage and inspire individuals of any age through an innovative, long term, educational approach to outdoor play and learning in a woodland setting.
Forest School is a type of outdoor education in which children visit forests and woodlands in order to learn personal, social and technical skills.
Forest School uses the woods and forests as a means to build independence and self-esteem in children and young adults. Topics are cross-curriculum, broad in subject, and include the natural environment. Examples include:
- The role of trees in society
- The complex ecosystem supported by a wilderness
- Recognition of specific plants and animals
This is in addition to valuable personal skills, such as teamwork and problem solving.
At Clifton College Preparatory School, we have a large site at Beggar’s Bush that incorporates a large forest area and a meadow area where the children can work, plan, investigate and learn.
Year 3 has one full day per term.