Forest School
At Harris Primary Academy Kent House, we are incredibly proud of our Forest School provision. Every child takes part in Forest School for half a term each year, making full use of our safe and stimulating on site woodland area.
Forest School gives children the chance to learn outdoors in a purposeful, hands on way. Through time spent in nature, children develop curiosity, confidence and a strong sense of responsibility for the world around them. It also supports children’s mental health and wellbeing, offering space to explore, reflect, build friendships and enjoy learning in a calm, nurturing environment.
Learning at Forest School is carefully planned and builds over time. Children take part in practical, first hand experiences that help them make real connections with what they learn in the classroom. These experiences help learning to feel meaningful and memorable, supporting children to retain knowledge and apply it in different contexts.
Forest School provides a wide range of opportunities for children to:
- take appropriate risks in a controlled and supportive setting
- solve problems and make decisions
- develop practical, physical and teamwork skills
- grow in confidence as independent learners
The impact of Forest School is seen across all areas of school life. Children learn to manage risks, keep themselves and others safe, and develop resilience when faced with challenges. They gain confidence in communicating their ideas, explaining their thinking and working collaboratively with others.
Forest School also plays an important role in supporting positive relationships. Children build strong friendships, learn to understand their emotions, and develop the skills needed to interact thoughtfully and respectfully with others.
By bringing learning to life in the natural world, Forest School helps children develop a love of learning, confidence in themselves and skills that will support them throughout their education and beyond.
