Forest School

We have had a super start to Forest School this term! All the classes taking part have spent time getting to know the rules and routines of these sessions, such as respecting nature and each other and leaving no trace behind when we tidy up. We have all learned how to stay safe when the campfire is lit and nearly everyone has had chance to toast a marshmallow!

Each class has adopted a tree in our grounds and we are using these trees as a symbol for each group. As we go through the year we will learn all about our class tree.

Mrs Stewart’s Class = Wild Cherry Crew

Miss Grainger’s Class = Rowan Clan

Mrs Weighell’s Class = Sycamore Troupe

Mrs Foxwell’s class = Alder Pack

Mrs Whitaker’s Class = Willow Knot

Mr Well’s Class = Silver Birch Squad

Rowan Clan and Sycamore Troupe classes have shown a strong interest for minibeasts! We have looked for creatures around our nature area, observing them carefully and even drawing them. Who knew there are 26 different types of ladybird in the UK? We seem to have a wonderful habitat for ladybirds at school. Last week we found many larvae and this week the larvae had become pupae and were transforming to ladybirds – fascinating to observe! We are taking turns each week to light the fire and use the storm kettle to heat water for hot chocolate. This week we also talked about our feelings when learning outside. We read the story of The Busy Fox. The children reflected that being outside helps them feel relaxed, peaceful and close to their friends.

In Willow Knot we looked at some den building skills this week. We all learned how to tie a figure of eight knot. There was some fantastic peer tutoring developing as those who found it easy supported those who did not. We then used this skill to put up some simple tarpaulin shelters. Team work was key here, especially when the breeze built! There was lots of discussion around the best direction to situate the shelter with regards to the wind and everyone learned how to push a peg in at an angle to stop it being pulled out of the ground.

Silver Birch Squad were at Robinwood this week, but the week before they started making some journey sticks, using vegetable peelers to remove the bark from a willow stick and then decorating them with pens and wool. As our oldest children, they are expected to take responsibility for putting together the campfire circle at the start of each session and for ensuring all tools and equipment are properly accounted for at the end.

The rest of this term promises to bring even more super learning outside. We strongly encourage the children to bring in wellies for their session, particularly as the weather begins to turn.