Forest School Curriculum
We are very excited to have our very own Forest School in the school grounds; we also use other areas of woodland in the area to support learning, such as the village orchard.
Intent
At Ditchling (St Margaret’s) CE Primary and Nursery School, our Forest School program aims to harness the rich outdoor learning spaces within the South Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to foster holistic development in our students. We are committed to providing all year groups, from Nursery to Year 6, with immersive, nature-based experiences that promote physical, emotional, and social growth. Our bespoke wellbeing curriculum for Key Stage 2 is designed to build resilience, confidence, and a deep connection to the natural world.
Implementation
Each term, every class spends a dedicated day engaged in Forest School activities, either within our own grounds or through excursions into the surrounding natural landscapes. These sessions are led by qualified teachers who integrate the Forest School principles with our curriculum objectives. For our youngest learners in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), the focus is on sensory exploration and foundational skills, while students from Year 1 to Year 6 engage in progressively challenging tasks that develop teamwork, problem-solving, and environmental stewardship. Our Key Stage 2 wellbeing curriculum incorporates mindfulness practices and social-emotional learning, tailored to the unique needs of each cohort.
Impact
Through consistent participation in the Forest School program, our students demonstrate enhanced physical health, improved social interactions, and a greater sense of responsibility towards the environment. Teachers observe increased engagement and enthusiasm for learning, as well as notable growth in self-esteem and independence among pupils. The program also supports academic achievement by providing experiential learning opportunities that reinforce classroom instruction. By the end of Year 6, our students are well-equipped with the skills and attitudes necessary to navigate future challenges, embodying the values of respect, perseverance, and curiosity that are central to our school ethos.
We are pleased to offer the children this further opportunity to develop holistically (including socially, physically, intellectually, creatively and emotionally) in the outside environment.
The sessions will go ahead whatever the weather. All children will require all-weather clothing and footwear. Forest School Kit
