Forest School at KWPS

Subject Leader: Mrs G Smith

What Forest School Looks Like at KWPS

Forest School at Kirkham & Wesham Primary School provides children with regular opportunities to learn outdoors through hands-on, practical experiences.

Sessions take place in our on-site Forest School area, which includes trees, hedging and areas of natural planting. Additional natural resources are brought onto site to support learning and encourage creativity.

Children take part in a range of activities including:

den building
tool use
nature exploration
creative crafts
team games
fire-based activities (where appropriate)Each session includes opportunities for exploration, supported risk-taking and reflection.

The Intent of our Forest School Curriculum

At KWPS, Forest School is designed to provide a child-centred, inspiring learning experience that supports the holistic development of every pupil.

Our approach is based on the Forest School Association principles and aims to:

✔ develop confidence, resilience and independence
✔ foster a strong connection with the natural world
✔ support physical, social, emotional and cognitive development
✔ encourage curiosity, exploration and problem-solving
✔ promote positive wellbeing and self-esteem

We aim for all children to develop a lifelong appreciation of nature and an understanding of their place within the world.

The Implementation of our Forest School Curriculum

Forest School is delivered as a structured programme across the school.

Each year group participates in a block of sessions, typically over a minimum of six weeks. Sessions are delivered by trained Forest School practitioners with appropriate first aid training.

Sessions follow a consistent structure:

introduction and safety briefing
practical activities and exploration
opportunities for free choice and play
reflection and discussion

Activities are carefully planned and adapted to meet the needs of all learners. Pupils are encouraged to take appropriate risks, solve problems and work collaboratively.

Learning is linked to the wider curriculum where appropriate, for example through History topics such as the Stone Age, while also focusing on developing key life skills.

Risk assessments are in place for the site, tools and activities to ensure learning is safe and purposeful.

The Impact of our Forest School Curriculum

Through Forest School, pupils at KWPS:

✔ develop confidence and independence
✔ build resilience and problem-solving skills
✔ improve physical coordination and fine motor skills
✔ deepen their understanding of the natural world
✔ develop strong communication and teamwork skills
✔ show increased curiosity and enjoyment of learning

Pupils develop a meaningful connection with nature and gain skills that support both their academic learning and personal development.

Progression of Skills

Forest School supports progression across a range of areas:

Physical Development
Children develop gross and fine motor skills through activities such as climbing, building and tool use.

Social and Emotional Development
Children learn to work collaboratively, take risks and build resilience.

Communication and Language
Children develop vocabulary through discussion, reflection and exploration of the natural environment.

Understanding the World
Children learn about plants, animals, habitats and seasonal change.

Inclusion and Accessibility

Forest School is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all pupils. Activities are adapted to ensure that every child can participate and succeed.

We meet our duties under the Equality Act 2010 and SEND regulations by: