Forest School
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Exploring, discovering and flourishing outdoors
At Bosley St Mary's CE Primary School, we believe that learning outdoors is an essential part of every child's development. Our beautiful rural setting provides wonderful opportunities for children to explore the natural world, develop new skills and grow in confidence, independence and resilience.
Every child takes part in Forest School every week, with sessions taught within their classes. Beyond these sessions, we embrace opportunities to take learning outdoors wherever possible, recognising the benefits that fresh air, movement, exploration and connection with nature bring to children's learning and wellbeing.
Learning Through Nature
Forest School provides children with opportunities to learn through practical experiences, exploration, creativity and carefully supported challenges.
Through our outdoor learning experiences, children develop:
- Confidence and independence: Trying new activities, making decisions and developing a sense of achievement.
- Resilience and perseverance: Embracing challenges, solving problems and learning from setbacks.
- Teamwork and communication: Listening, sharing ideas, cooperating and supporting one another.
- Creativity and curiosity: Exploring the natural environment, asking questions, investigating and using imagination.
- Practical skills: Developing coordination, problem-solving and the ability to use equipment and resources responsibly.
- Managing risk: Learning to recognise potential hazards, assess situations and make safe, sensible choices.
- Respect and responsibility: Caring for our environment, understanding the importance of sustainability and appreciating the natural world.
Our Forest School Experience
Forest School is an important part of our weekly curriculum. Sessions provide opportunities for children to explore, investigate, create and collaborate, developing their skills and confidence over time.
Children are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, develop their interests and reflect on their experiences. Activities provide appropriate challenge and opportunities for children to experience success in different ways.
Our approach supports the development of the whole child, nurturing physical, social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing alongside practical skills and an appreciation of nature.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
At Bosley, outdoor learning doesn't stop at Forest School.
We aim to make the most of our school grounds and rural surroundings, taking learning outside whenever it can enhance children's understanding and experiences.
Whether exploring mathematical ideas, investigating scientific concepts, developing language and creativity or simply taking time to appreciate the world around us, we recognise that the outdoors provides a rich and inspiring learning environment.
Our Christian vision encourages us to value and care for creation, recognising our responsibility to protect and respect the natural world.
What Should Children Wear?
Forest School takes place throughout the year, including in wet and colder weather. Children should come to school in their normal school uniform, with suitable outdoor clothing to wear over the top. PE kit may also be worn where appropriate.
We recommend:
- Plenty of layers to keep warm, including long-sleeved tops, jumpers or fleeces.
- Waterproof trousers to wear over school uniform, particularly in wet or muddy conditions.
- A waterproof coat with a hood – essential for wet weather.
- Wellies or sturdy outdoor footwear suitable for mud and uneven ground.
- Warm socks, with a spare pair if possible.
- Hats and gloves during colder weather.
- A sunhat and sun protection during warmer weather.
Clothing should be comfortable, practical and suitable for outdoor exploration. Please ensure that all items are clearly named.
Forest School is all about exploring, discovering and getting stuck in – so please expect some mud!
Our ambition is for every child to develop confidence, resilience, curiosity and a lasting connection with the natural world, discovering that learning and flourishing can happen anywhere.