We are lucky to have an area of the beautiful Longleat Estate woodland as our Forest School. In an age where children are absorbed by their electronic devices and have a lack of safe outdoor opportunities, the chance for them to escape the pressures of the online world is essential. This fantastic outdoor setting encourages teachers and pupils to embrace teaching and learning in a challenging, natural woodland environment.

The Forest School uses woods and forests as a means to build personal confidence and self-esteem in children. It is a specialised learning approach that sits within and complements the wider context of outdoor and woodland education.

Warminster Forest School offers a learner-centered approach, where pupils can learn through self-directed play and exploration. Forest School qualified teachers give their classes the opportunity to develop curiosity, confidence, self-esteem, creativity, empathy, communication skills, and the ability to assess risk.

Examples of Forest School activities include:  • Woodland management and nature exploration • Building dens and other structures • Fires and cooking • Games and invitations for imaginative play • Natural crafts

The younger year groups all have regular sessions, Forest School philosophy being that the most benefit is gained from regular contact with nature and Head of Prep, Mr Titley is a firm advocate “Forest School is an integral part of our curriculum at Warminster. A balanced education should extend well beyond the four walls of a classroom.” 

Nicola Rogers, Assistant Head Pupil Development wholeheartedly agrees with the ethos, “Forest School encapsulates many of the aims of our Pupil Development Programme here at Warminster – all brought brilliantly together whilst giving the pupils a real sense of self and connection to the natural world. We believe children of all ages should have regular, long-term access to a woodland or natural environment which provides inspirational and challenging outdoor learning opportunities. Young people face a tremendous amount of pressure growing up today, and the chance to escape and explore is crucial to help them find their sense of adventure.”

Flickr images