Forest School at Horton

At Horton, we believe in the power of outdoor learning. Our Forest School sessions foster a deep connection between children and the environment.

We have received several awards and are recognised nationally as a school for nature.

Taking learning outside is beneficial in promoting children’s self-esteem, wellbeing, creativity, collaborative learning, team building and problem solving all through hands on experience. We use outdoor natural resources and the children’s innate curiosity to spark investigative learning.

The sites being used have been carefully assessed and the children will be given detailed training for all of the activities. Part of forest school is teaching children about risks and how to evaluate them; we have 5 key rules.

• Stay in the boundary

• Look after ourselves and look after nature

• Don’t know – don’t touch

• See it, say it

• If you hear the whistle come back to an adult

Forest School takes place weekly, all year round, outdoors and in all weathers (except in thunderstorms and very high winds). Each session follows a routine that the children are familiar with, including a group discussion, activity and exploration of a natural area i.e. woodland or walk and a final get together for reflection time before heading back to class.

Why Forest School Matters at Horton:

Our sessions are more than just fun; they are carefully designed to cultivate essential skills and qualities:

 * Environmental awareness: Developing a genuine appreciation and understanding of the natural world.

 * Personal growth: Building self-esteem, confidence, and independence.

 * Social development: Enhancing teamwork, communication, and social skills.

 * Cognitive abilities: Boosting motivation, concentration, and problem-solving skills.

 * Physical proficiency: Improving coordination, balance, and gross motor skills.

 * Sensory exploration: Engaging all senses to fully experience the environment.

 * Safety awareness: learning how to stay safe in a natural environment.

Igniting curiosity

Forest School is a journey of discovery, guided by thoughtful questions that encourage exploration and reflection:

 * What hidden wonders lie beneath a fallen log?

 * How can we use our senses to observe the subtle movements of wildlife?

 * Can we create art using only the textures and colours of nature?

 * How can we build a welcoming habitat for local creatures?

 * What sensations do we experience when walking barefoot on the earth?

 * How can we collaborate with others to achieve a common goal?

 * Can we challenge ourselves to try something new?

The Essence of Forest School

In our ‘outdoor classroom’, there are no right or wrong answers, no ticking clocks, and no fear of failure. We embrace the freedom to play, learn, and grow, regardless of the weather. Rain or shine, we venture outdoors, fostering resilience and a love for nature.

Our Guiding Principles:

 * Respect for Nature: We are committed to caring for and protecting our natural environment.

 * Respect for Self: We prioritise the safety and well-being of every child.

Key contact

Mrs Humphreys - Forest School lead