Forest School at Layer Preschool
We are delighted to be able to fun Forest School sessions from Layer Preschool. These sessions are lead by Stef Sharman, who is now a qualified Level 3 Forest School Leader.
We run sessions for groups of around 15 children at a time and will alternate days every half term, so that all children can be included throughout the year.
We use an area in Layer Woods, just down the road from preschool, so it is a short walk to site.
We also use our own garden area and our fire pit is only used on our premises.
Our Forest School Vision Statement
Stepping away from the constraints of the traditional four walls, Forest School allows children the time and space to initiate their own learning. It encourages the development of children’s emotional and physical development through outdoor play, activities and exploration in a woodland environment. It allows children to develop their resilience, build their confidence, self-esteem, imagination and independence while experimenting by attempting ‘real’ hands-on activities.
Forest School at Layer Preschool also allows for children to enjoy calm times and just be themselves while learning to respect themselves, each other and their environment.
Forest School Principles
- 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, adaption, observations and reviewing are integral elements of Forest School.
- Forest School takes place in woodland or natural wooded environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.
- Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
- Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
- Forest School is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.
- Forest School uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for development and learning.
Forest School Activities Include
|
Den building |
Flower crowns |
|
Bow and arrows |
Mud kitchen |
|
Potion making |
Potato peeler whittling |
|
Clay play |
Natural artwork |
|
Painting and mark making |
Cairn making |
|
Hapa Zome (leaf bashing/printing) |
Campfire (on preschool site only) |
|
Treasure hunts |
Making nests |
|
Rope swings |
Bug hunting |
