Forest School at Awbridge

The intention of Forest School at Awbridge is to provide children with the opportunity to enjoy being outside in all seasons, to experience activities they may not necessarily be exposed to within the classroom, and to provide a space away from, but alongside, the curriculum to allow children to holistically develop and mature at their own pace.

Children learn about and promote ecology on the site, and focus on increasing the number of animals, insects and wildlife in our environment. They learn how to identify some of the key trees and flowers on the site, and help promote biodiversity by planting trees and seeds as well as creating places for animals for live in birdboxes, hedgehog house and bug hotels.  

What do I need to know? 

• Forest School will run in almost any weather conditions – the exception being in high wind. There are significant learning opportunities to be enjoyed in all weather conditions, including, the very wet and the very cold.  

• Children need, as a minimum, waterproof trousers and coats. We do have a stock of these items which can be borrowed if necessary. 

• Forest School sessions are run with high, adult – child ratios to allow children to experience elements of ‘risky play’ and risk.  We encourage DBS checked volunteers (and parents) to join us for sessions.

• Activities with a high level of potential risk will always be conducted with a 1:1 ratio.  

• Forest School sessions will always be led by a fully qualified Forest School Practitioner. 

• All children will need to wear plenty of layers on their Forest School day as this is more effective than one thick coat in cold weather.

• Packing spare clothes, such as socks, is advised in case of wet feet.  It's also worth bearing in mind that wellies do not offer much warmth!