Forest Schools

At Sir John Moore C.E. Primary School, we believe that outdoor learning is essential for children’s development. Our Forest School Programme, in partnership with Discovery Outdoors, provides pupils with the opportunity to explore, create, and grow through hands-on experiences in nature. These sessions are designed to nurture confidence, teamwork, resilience, and a deep connection with the natural world.

What is Forest School?

Forest School is a unique approach to learning that uses the outdoors to support the holistic development of children. Activities are child-led, fostering independence, creativity, and problem-solving skills in a safe and stimulating environment.

Our Forest School Programme

Reception – Welly Wednesdays

  • Reception pupils take part in Welly Wednesdays, where they visit a local farm for nature-based exploration and animal interaction.
  • These weekly sessions introduce our youngest learners to the joys of outdoor play, from bug hunting and den building to story time under the trees.
  • We also host special, sessions throughout the year, inviting parents and carers to join the fun and share in their children’s outdoor adventures.

Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2

  • Pupils across the school participate in half-day sessions once per term, guided by skilled Forest School practitioners from Discovery Outdoors.
  • These sessions take place in our very own Forest School area, equipped for exploration, tool use, and team-building activities.
  • Pupils experience a wide range of activities, such as:
    • Building dens and shelters
    • Using tools to create wooden crafts
    • Fire-lighting in a safe, controlled environment
    • Learning about flora, fauna, and conservation
    • Developing bushcraft and survival skills

The Grand Finale: A Whole Day at Cattows Farm

  • The Forest School programme culminates in a whole-day session at the Discovery Outdoors base at Cattows Farm, a beautiful and expansive natural setting.
  • Here, pupils put their new skills into practice and reflect on their learning journey, enjoying a full day immersed in nature.

Why Forest School?

The benefits of Forest School are immense, helping children develop across our core values of Head, Heart, and Hands:

  • Head: Pupils gain practical knowledge about the natural world, sustainability, and ecology.
  • Heart: The sessions promote teamwork, empathy, and resilience, fostering strong emotional connections with peers and the environment.
  • Hands: Through hands-on activities like tool use and crafting, pupils develop fine motor skills and a sense of achievement.

Parent and Carer Involvement

We believe in building strong partnerships with our families. Throughout the year, parents and carers are invited to participate in Forest School activities. These sessions offer a chance to bond with children, explore nature, and experience the joy of outdoor learning together.

Our Partnership with Discovery Outdoors

Our collaboration with Discovery Outdoors ensures high-quality, engaging sessions for all pupils. Based at Cattows Farm, Discovery Outdoors provides experienced Forest School practitioners who deliver inspiring and impactful learning experiences.

A Lasting Impact

Forest School is more than just outdoor learning—it’s about inspiring a lifelong love for nature and fostering key skills that pupils carry with them throughout their lives. By climbing trees, lighting fires, and working as a team, our pupils build resilience, independence, and confidence, embodying our ethos of "Climbing to New Heights Together."

Join the Adventure!

We are thrilled to share the magic of Forest School with our pupils and their families. Whether it’s a Welly Wednesday for Reception, a Forest School session for KS1 or KS2, or the grand day at Cattows Farm, the Forest School experience is a highlight of the year.

Let’s nurture the next generation of explorers, conservationists, and adventurers—one muddy boot at a time!

Click here for more information from Discovery Outdoors