Why do we provide Forest School?

At Chaucer, we put the children's needs at the heart of all our provision and Forest School only continues to enhance this ethos. It is a unique way of building independence and self-esteem in young children, exposing them to the natural world at a time where it is vital for children to understand their impact on the environment.  It is a child-centred and child-led programme that provides the opportunity to have new, creative experiences in the outdoor environment in a safe way. Children will have opportunities to learn about the natural environment, how to handle risks and most importantly to use their own initiative to solve problems and co-operate with others. We believe it is important to challenge children to have experiences outside of their comfort zone in a supportive and considerate manner.

What impact can it have?

The Forest School programme has been designed to promote difference and diversity, ensuring everyone feels valued and that individuality is celebrated. Our aim is to nurture children to become successful lifelong learners and happy, fulfilled adults who can make positive choices about their futures by increasing their confidence and helping them to experience success. We hope to broaden children's horizons and encourage them to spend more of their free time outside and away from screens.

What does our offer look like?

We aim to ensure that every child will have an opportunity to experience Forest Schools at some point during their time a Chaucer Junior School. This could be as part of a whole class or in a smaller intervention group.

Please see the following photos for examples of some of our activities...