Forest School

At William Hildyard Forest School we aim to foster opportunities for each individual child to meaningfully engage with the natural world around them, empowered by a sound foundation of knowledge and experience. It is long-term learning journey which the children will be involved in throughout their time at William Hildyard. The children will have the opportunity to learn in our wooded Forest School area within the school grounds. As part of the Aspire Federation, at William Hildyard C of E Primary and Nursery School, we aspire for everyone to let their light shine.

In our school community, we grow well-rounded individuals, who utilise our Christian values to prepare for the challenges of the wider world. We provide a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment where individuality is celebrated. We support the children to develop curious minds and enable happy, confident learners to reach their full potential. The holistic approach in Forest School helps learners to let their light shine.

Forest School is a child centred learning process which gives young learners opportunities to develop self-esteem and confidence through hands on learning experiences. It supports play and exploration alongside supported risk taking. Sessions are taken place in a woodland environment throughout all seasons, inspiring a deep and meaningful connection with the natural world.

The holistic approach in Forest School helps learners to direct their own learning through a range of experiences these include natural crafts, tool skills, making fires, cooking, knot making, playing in the mud kitchen, woodland management, sensory activities and making shelters during these outdoor sessions. These sessions are run by Mrs Keymer a qualified Forest School Leader. Throughout the school year each class will experience a number of sessions that are cross-curricular in nature which aim to add depth and breadth to topics studied within the classroom.