'The best classroom and the richest classroom is roofed only by the sky.' - Margaret McMillan

At Nicholas Hawksmoor, all children in Reception and Year 1 will participate in regular Forest School sessions within our pocket park with our trained staff.

Curriculum Intent

Forest School is an integral part of our curriculum, offering children unique opportunities to develop essential life skills and a deep connection with the natural world.

We believe that outdoor learning is vital for children's holistic development. Forest School provides a stimulating and supportive environment where children can learn through exploration, experimentation, and play. By immersing themselves in nature, children develop confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of curiosity.

Our aim is to create a generation of children who are environmentally aware, responsible, and empathetic citizens. Through Forest School, we strive to inspire a lifelong love of learning and the outdoors.

Implementation

Forest School is delivered through a carefully planned programme of weekly sessions led by our qualified Forest School Leader, supported by experienced support staff and volunteers. We prioritize a child-centred approach, allowing children to take ownership of their learning and develop independence.

Sessions take place outdoors in our pocket park, a woodland environment, providing children with opportunities to engage in a wide range of activities, including:

• Shelter building
• Natural art
• Using tools safely and effectively
• Fire lighting (under strict supervision)
• Animal tracking and bug hunts
• Tree identification and plant exploration
• Climbing and balancing
• Woodwork projects
• Creating habitats for wildlife
• Team games and collaborative problem-solving

Through these experiences, children develop essential skills such as problem-solving, creativity, communication, and teamwork. We believe that learning in a natural environment enhances children's physical and mental well-being, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.

NHPS Forest School Code of Conduct

Impact

Forest School has a profound impact on children's personal and social development. By overcoming challenges and achieving goals in a natural setting, children build self-confidence, resilience, and a positive sense of self. They develop a deep appreciation for the natural world and a strong sense of responsibility towards it.

Research has shown that Forest School can improve children's academic performance, as well as their emotional and social well-being. By developing skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and communication, children are better equipped to succeed in all areas of their learning.

Our partnership with parents and carers is essential to the success of Forest School. We believe that by working together, we can create a lasting impact on children's lives. Through regular communication and shared experiences, we can support children's learning and development both inside and outside of the classroom.

Outdoor Learning

Intent

• Nurture children’s resilience, motivation, and self-esteem.
• Develop essential life skills—teamwork, communication, perseverance, empathy, problem solving and respect
• Provide enriching opportunities that support the curriculum, improve well-being, and prepare pupils for later life.

Implementation

Outdoor Learning is delivered through a structured programme:

• Each year group (Years 2–6) takes part in a six-week block across the academic year.
• Sessions are planned and led by trained staff, ensuring a balance of curriculum-linked activities and opportunities for child-led exploration.
• Children are explicitly taught to recognise, practise and reflect on the six core skills, which are celebrated in class and at home via platforms such as Class Dojo.
• Outdoor Learning is fully risk-assessed, inclusive, and adapted to ensure that all pupils, including those with SEND and those who may be disadvantaged, can participate safely and successfully.
• Practical considerations (appropriate clothing, weather preparation) are communicated clearly to families to ensure pupils are well supported.
• This structured yet flexible approach ensures pupils build on prior experiences each year, enabling progression in skills and attitudes from Year 2 through to Year 6.

Impact

• Know more, remember more and can do more in relation to collaboration, problem-solving and resilience.
• Demonstrate increased confidence, independence and motivation that transfers back into classroom learning.
• Are able to articulate the value of teamwork, respect and empathy in their everyday lives.
• Show improved engagement and personal development, contributing to positive behaviour and attendance.
• Are recognised for their progress through the Outdoor Learning Certificate, celebrating the acquisition of lifelong skills..

• High-quality curriculum provision.
• Inclusion and equity of access.
• Safeguarding and well-being.
• Pupils’ personal development and preparation for future learning and life.