Forest School at Nightingale Primary
At Nightingale Primary, we are proud to offer Forest School sessions for our Nursery to Year 2 students. Every week, our young learners venture into the outdoors to explore, discover, and learn in a natural setting.
What is Forest School?
Forest School is an innovative educational approach that focuses on hands-on learning experiences in a woodland or natural environment. It aims to foster children’s curiosity, creativity, and confidence through regular outdoor sessions.
Activities in Forest School
Our Forest School curriculum is designed to engage children in a variety of activities that connect them with nature and enhance their learning experience. Some of the activities our students enjoy include:
- Exploring Nature: Children observe plants, insects, and wildlife, developing their understanding of ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Building and Construction: Using natural materials, students build shelters, dens, and structures, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Creative Arts: Crafting with natural resources, such as making leaf prints, clay sculptures, and nature-inspired art projects.
- Tool Use: Under careful supervision, children learn to use simple tools like whittling knives and hand drills, promoting fine motor skills and responsibility.
- Sensory Play: Engaging in mud kitchens, water play, and sensory trails to enhance tactile experiences and sensory development.
- Storytelling and Imaginative Play: Utilising the forest setting for storytelling sessions and imaginative play, fostering language development and creativity.
Benefits of Outdoor Learning
Research has shown that outdoor learning offers numerous benefits for young children. At Nightingale Primary, we believe that our Forest School programme positively impacts our students in various ways:
- Enhanced Cognitive Development: Studies have indicated that outdoor learning can improve concentration, problem-solving skills, and academic performance.
- Physical Health: Regular physical activity in natural settings promotes better physical health and reduces the risk of obesity and related health issues.
- Emotional Well-being: Nature-based learning has been linked to reduced stress, anxiety, and depression, leading to improved emotional resilience.
- Social Skills: Collaborative activities in the forest encourage communication, teamwork, and the development of social relationships.
- Connection to Nature: Early exposure to nature fosters a lifelong appreciation and respect for the environment, promoting sustainable living practices.
At Nightingale Primary, we are committed to providing our students with enriching, holistic educational experiences. Our Forest School programme is a testament to our dedication to nurturing well-rounded, confident, and resilient learners.
Join us in celebrating the wonders of outdoor learning and watch your child thrive in our Forest School sessions.