Forest School

At Ringway we offer a broad and balanced currIculum to develop the whole child. We are very excited to now be able to offer Forest School sessions to our students. This offers the same broad range of experiences designed to develi the whole child; physically, intellectually, emotionally, socially, spiritually and morally. They will be immersed in nature through experiential learning experiences over a long-term programme of sessions.

Through child-led sessions, we aim to challenge and support the children to become resilient learners who enjoy trying out their ideas. The children will work together with their peers to solve problems and conquer challenges. The children will be involved in assessing risks in order for them to gain confidence and be aware of the benefits of taking risks.

We follow the 6 Forest School Principles -

Principle 1: Forest School is a long-term process of frequent and regular sessions in a woodland or natural environment, rather than a one-off visit. Planning, adaptation, observations and reviewing are integral elements of Forest School.

Principle 2: Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural wooded environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.

Principle 3: Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.

Principle 4: Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.

Principle 5: Forest School is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.

Principle 6: Forest School uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for development and learning.

Currently, children in Nursery and Year 3 will participate in a six-week Forest School programme, whilst all other year groups will experience a Forest School taster session in their class with our Forest School Leader, Miss Lucas, at some point in the year.

Forest School is an all year round and all-weather activity.

“There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!"

What to Wear - Forest School Clothing Guide

Footwear – our site can get very muddy, and weather is unpredictable. We therefore ask children to wear wellies or walking boots for each session. We have a selection of spare wellies in school for children to use.

Long trousers – we ask for children to have their legs covered all year round. This will keep them warm and dry, and protect them from scratches or nettle stings. Even on warm days it can be cooler under the shadow of the trees. We have spare waterproof trousers and suits for children top wear when needed.

Waterproof coat, waterproof trousers or an all-in-one waterproof suit – we ask children to bring waterproofs to Forest School. We will be going outside even in the rain. We have some spare waterproof coats at school that children can use.