Forest School

FOREST SCHOOL SESSIONS

Here at the Spinney are always looking for ways to develop children’s skills in a fun, enjoyable and inspiring way and encourage the children have as much outdoor play in the fresh air as possible. Over the years we have provided Forest School sessions in our Spinney Woods, conveniently located behind the Spinney Day Nursery Hoole.

In January 2023, we opened a new Forest School site at the Spinney Day Nursery Bell Meadow – which has been a fantastic addition to the site.

Throughout the year the Pre School & Toddlers have the opportunity to experience play and exploration in a natural surrounding including nature walks, creating Bug Hotels, going on Bear Hunts and arts and crafts using natural resources.

For a better idea of what the children do at Forest School, pop over to the ‘News’ section under the ‘Parent Info’ tab and take a look at the ‘A year in Forest School’ blog posts.

With the Forest School ethos at the heart of each session it provides a wonderful, holistic experience that encourages and supports each child’s development.

Take a look at some of the fun we’ve been having lately:

WHAT IS FOREST SCHOOL?

The concept of a Forest School is based on a Scandinavian idea of embracing the outdoors as a learning environment.

Our qualified Forest School Leader works with children and young people on a regular basis throughout the year in a local woodland setting. We follow the curriculum, but in an outdoor context, using learning and teaching strategies which raise self-esteem, develop confidence, independence, language and communication skills.

Forest Schools provide many benefits for children in their early years, including developing physical skills and agility at an early age. It also promotes social development, self confidence and self-esteem, team work, motivation, skills and knowledge. Not least of all it instils pride in – and understanding of – the environment.