Forest Schools

As part of our Learning Outside the Classroom provision we have introduced Forest Schools to St James'

What is Forest Schools?

The Forest Schools programme is an approach to education that makes use of the outdoor environment (preferably woodlands and forests) to create a unique learning vehicle that aims to encourage children to use their local open spaces for interactive play, health, recreation and personal development uses. The philosophy is to encourage and inspire individuals of any age through positive outdoor experiences. 

Children are given the time to thoroughly explore their thoughts, feelings and relationships. This time and reflective practice develops understanding of the world, the environment and everything within it through the use of emotions, imagination and senses.

What does it involve?

Programmes will run throughout the year, going into the grounds in all weathers. Children use full sized tools, play, learn boundaries of behaviour both physical and social, grow in confidence and become self motivated.   These sessions help children to develop individual skills and self esteem through activities such as hide and seek, shelter building, tool skills, lighting fires and environmental art.

The sessions are led by Mrs Skirrow who has done the required training to be a fully qualified Forest Schools Leader and currently we use our beautiful school grounds and also we use an area of local woodland.