Forest School is a child-led approach to learning that incorporates children’s right to play, to access the outdoor environment and to feel success. 

Forest School 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 for the children to use their personal learning style to complete various activities.

Forest School is an opportunity for the children at Preston Primary 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.

Forest School supports a variety of flora and fauna; the children are learning to value and appreciate its beauty

Through purposeful and careful planning of Forest School experiences, we strive to increase self-esteem, improve children’s concentration, attendance, behaviour and academic achievement.

We aim to foster a love and respect for the natural world through stimulating natural learning experiences, inspiring children to value biodiversity and develop a strong understanding of how to promote environmental sustainability. Our  ‘Wildlife Area’ is utilised all year round, with lessons adapted to compliment the ever-changing conditions, resources and challenges of the natural world through the seasons.

At Preston Primary, we put the children's needs at the heart of all our provision and Forest School only continues to enhance this ethos. Our Forest School promotes cultural diversity, ensuring everyone feels valued and that individuality is celebrated. We are highly confident that Forest School provision will not only compliment and extend the curriculum, but also nurture children to become successful lifelong learners and happy, fulfilled adults who can make positive choices about their futures.

Forest School learning experiences create endless opportunities for cross-curricular links to Science, Mathematics, English, Geography and Art.

Forest School experiences encourage children to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and self-confidence through respectful interactions with others and the natural environment. Working as a team to solve problems, children will develop and foster communication and negotiation skills.  These skills prepare the children for the world both inside and outside of school.