What is Forest School?
There is a growing body of research and literature that discusses the so called ‘nature deficit disorder’ that Britain’s children are facing. The danger from traffic, the issue of health and safety and achieving a ‘zero risk’ world as well as parental fears of ‘stranger danger’ have all had a consequence on children’s freedom to roam in the wider environment. A recent paper from the National Trust reports that on average, Britain’s children watch over 2 and a half hours of TV per day and spend more than 20 hours per week online. There is evidence to suggest that this sedentary, indoor lifestyle is having profound consequences for our children’s health, especially with regard to obesity, physical fitness levels as well as mental health, behavioral and emotional problems being on the rise.
For this reason, we believe that outdoor learning opportunities form an important part of our Lyneham Curriculum. All year groups benefit from regular visits to our local Cowleaze copse. We follow the Wild Passport curriculum which supports the progression of knowledge and skills across five distinct skill areas. These are: Fire, Rope, Shelter, Woodcraft and Nature Awareness. We are also very fortunate to have our very own roundhouse in our school grounds which is used for various learning opportunities including lunchtime and after school clubs.
Spending time in the outdoors is beneficial for children’s physical and mental wellbeing. Learning about nature and the environment around them, also developing outdoor learning skills such as how to build shelters and light fires. They also build up their gross and fine motor skills while having fun and enjoying the freedom to run, slide and jump.
Clothing for Forest Days - Click here for a printable clothing guide
Your child needs to be dressed appropriately for days that they have Forest School, especially with warm layers during colder weather. We hope you fin this clothing guide useful. If you have any queries please contact the school office.
Timetable for Forest School from 5th September 2023 - see below or click here for a printable timetable
Timetable for Forest School from September 2024 - see below or click here for a printable timetable
