Forest School at Measham Primary School
Measham Primary School is developing its own Forest School programme, which will be part of the curriculum for all year groups. We will be working with Dave Churchward from little Acorns Forest Schools to develop forest learning both on site and off site at Moira Furnace Woodlands.

Over the coming year our School Ambassadors will be working to develop our own forest school site so that it can be used regularly by all classes throughout the year.

What do we do at Forest School?
During the Forest School visits safety is discussed and becomes embedded in the learning. Children learn to recognise risk, why rules apply and how to be safe in an outdoor environment. Over time the children risk assess their own situations enabling them to explore, discover, problem solve and learn using the seasons, nature and the outdoor environment. Elements of the curriculum are delivered outside and therefore sessions are part directed and part child led. When appropriate the children will learn safe tool use, bush craft skills, seasonal nature based activities and outdoor cooking. All activities are small achievable tasks that encourage the children to succeed.

Why is Forest School important?
Forest School is an important and valuable dimension to the children's school experience at Measham Primary School. It enables children to connect with nature and it fosters a sense of respect and ownership with the outdoor environment. Forest School activities are designed to develop self-confidence and self-esteem through hands on learning experiences using natural materials. The children learn how to be safe, keep their friends safe and treat the site with respect. Forest School offers all children wider opportunities to thrive and celebrate skills that they wouldn't have the chance to share in the classroom.