Forest School

At Biggin Hill Primary School, all children from Preschool to Year 6 access our Forest School as part of their curriculum. Taught by a specialist teacher, the children are able to enjoy sessions come rain or shine!

Intent

Forest School is designed as a long-term, child-centred approach to outdoor learning that promotes the holistic development of children through regular experiences in a natural environment. In line with the Forest School Association principles, sessions foster resilient, confident, independent and creative learners while supporting emotional wellbeing and positive relationships with others and the natural world. Children are encouraged to explore, take appropriate risks and develop curiosity and respect for nature, building a lifelong connection with the environment. Forest School complements the wider curriculum by nurturing personal, social and physical development and by valuing each child as a unique and capable learner.

Implementation

Forest School is implemented through regular, progressive sessions in a woodland or natural outdoor setting, led by trained Forest School practitioners and planned using a cycle of observation, adaptation and review. Activities combine child-initiated exploration with carefully facilitated experiences such as den building, tool use, fire safety, natural crafts and environmental discovery, ensuring opportunities for supported risk-taking and challenge. Sessions are learner-centred and responsive to children’s interests, promoting collaboration, choice and sustained engagement over time. Seasonal changes and natural resources provide rich and varied learning experiences, while clear routines and boundaries ensure safety and consistency. This approach reflects Forest School principles of long-term provision, learner-centred processes and professional leadership.

Impact

The impact of Forest School is evident in children’s increasing confidence, resilience and independence, alongside improved social skills, communication and emotional wellbeing. Through regular engagement with the natural environment, pupils develop a sense of belonging, environmental responsibility and positive attitudes towards challenge and risk. Children demonstrate enhanced problem-solving, teamwork and physical coordination, with these dispositions transferring positively to classroom learning and wider school life. Over time, Forest School supports holistic development and nurtures creative, reflective learners who value nature and show respect for themselves, others and the environment, reflecting the core aims of Forest School practice.