Forest School at Abbey Wood Nursery School

The history of Forest Schools

Forest School originated in Denmark in the early 1980’s.  They found that children who had participated in outdoor learning were arriving at school with strong social skills, ability to work both as part of a group and

individually and generally had high self-esteem and confidence.

Forest Schools was introduced in the UK during the 1990’s and Greenwich was the first borough in London to participate.

Common questions……

What will my child do in Forest School?

Sessions will run for approximately 1 to 1 and half hours.  Every session will start and finish at base camp.  Children will be reminded of the rules at the beginning of each session after which they will be introduced to the activity and any new equipment.  Children will then choose to either take part in the activity or to revisit a previous task.  Equally they may choose to explore and investigate the woodland area.

Many of the tasks set will involve natural materials within the woodland area and may involve your child become messy.

All children are provided with waterproof clothing and wellies so if they get wet or dirty it will not be an obstacle for your child’s learning.

What are the benefits of Forest Schools?

Recent studies have shown that children who participate in Forest School sessions grow in confidence and self-esteem.  They develop a variety of life skills including, independence, communication and self-discovery.

Forest Schools will stimulate your child’s imagination, creativity and increase their knowledge in the world around them.

‘Imagine jumping in puddles, hide and seek, building shelters and much, much more’.

‘Every child should experience Forest Schools’

Where is Forest School Located?

Our forest school is on site, located at the back of the school. This  is a purpose built safe space that our forest school leads can take the children to and learn about the environment, plants, trees, mini breasts and the world around them.