The Forest School approach to learning focuses on an ethos that maximises the emotional, social and developmental benefits of education. It believes children need to have more opportunities to:
At Park Way School, Forest School is run for small groups of children with a higher than average adult ratio. This allows our pupils to experience a wide range of more adventurous activities in a safe environment and for adults to safely demonstrate new skills. The adults are primarily observers but will provide support as appropriate to the individual child. At present the site comprises a small woodland area with clearings for a fire pit and a safe tool working and craft area. Several trees are used for climbing or for constructing dens and shelters. Sessions differ depending on the age of the child and their needs, with younger children enjoying the freedom of imaginative play whilst the older pupils use tools for construction. Children are free to choose their own activities and to develop their projects as they wish.
Children are shown how to:
Craft activities are mainly seasonal related allowing children to use the natural objects found in the woods. Children have printed using flowers and leaves, used conkers to make objects and clay for tree masks.
At the end of each session children reflect on what they have achieved, how they feel and plan for the following week. All activities are child iniaited.