Forest School Curriculum Statement
At Batchley First School, our Forest School provision nurtures curiosity, resilience, and a deep connection with the natural world. Rooted in child-led exploration and hands-on experiences, Our Forest School offers a safe, inclusive space where all pupils, including those with SEND and Pupil Premium, can thrive through meaningful connection with nature.
We prioritise:
Equity and inclusion: All pupils, including those with SEND and Pupil Premium, access Forest School through differentiated activities, sensory-rich experiences, and supportive adult facilitation.
Holistic development: Activities promote physical coordination, emotional regulation, and social communication, fostering well-being and self-esteem.
Curriculum Enrichment through Forest School
Forest School not only complements science, geography, and PSHE—through seasonal observation, environmental stewardship, and practical problem-solving—but also enriches PE and DT by promoting physical coordination, resilience, tool use, and hands-on construction. This holistic approach fosters curiosity, wellbeing, and real-world learning across the curriculum.
Risk-aware learning: Pupils engage in age-appropriate challenges—such as tool use, shelter building, and fire safety—within a structured framework that promotes responsibility and reflection.
Spiritual and cultural growth: Time in nature encourages awe, mindfulness, and respect for diverse traditions and ecological values.
Therapeutic Forest School: Designed to support emotional well-being, our sessions provide calm, sensory-rich environments where children can regulate, reflect, and rebuild confidence. Activities such as mindful nature walks, den-building, and storytelling circles foster resilience, empathy, and self-awareness.
Forest School Yoga: Interwoven into our outdoor curriculum, Forest School Yoga combines movement, breathwork, and nature-based mindfulness. These sessions promote physical coordination, emotional regulation, and a deeper sense of belonging in the natural world.
Forest School is a vital strand of our whole-school commitment to joyful, inclusive learning. It celebrates every child’s potential and supports lifelong attitudes of care, curiosity, and courage. As many of our learners do not have access to a garden at home, this time in an outdoor environment is so important.
