At Fatfield Academy, we are committed to providing rich, varied, and meaningful learning opportunities that go beyond the classroom. Forest School is an important part of our curriculum, supporting children’s academic progress alongside their personal, social, emotional, and physical development.

Forest School offers pupils the chance to connect with nature, build resilience, and develop key life skills such as problem-solving, independence, creativity, and teamwork. It also promotes wellbeing, encouraging positive mental health, reducing stress, and instilling a lifelong respect for the outdoors.

Our practice is rooted in the six guiding principles of Forest School:

1. Regular sessions over time – Children attend Forest School on a long-term, frequent basis, giving them time to build skills, reflect on experiences, and see their progress.
2. Learning in a natural environment – Sessions take place outdoors, where children can engage with woodland and natural spaces, notice seasonal changes, and develop environmental awareness.
3. Holistic development – Activities are designed to nurture the whole child—supporting their physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual growth.
4. Supported risk-taking – Children are encouraged to take manageable risks, such as using tools or exploring natural materials, in a safe and supportive setting. This builds confidence, independence, and resilience.
5. Learner-centred processes – Sessions are tailored to children’s interests and needs, allowing them to explore, investigate, and direct their own learning.
6. Led by trained practitioners – Qualified Forest School leaders guide and facilitate the sessions, ensuring children are supported, encouraged, and challenged in positive ways.

By embedding these principles into our provision, Forest School at Fatfield Academy ensures that every child benefits from meaningful, hands-on experiences in nature. These experiences help to:

• Strengthen wellbeing, confidence, and self-esteem.
• Promote teamwork, communication, and respect for others.
• Encourage curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
• Foster a lifelong connection with, and respect for, the natural world.

In this way, Forest School enriches our curriculum and helps prepare children with the skills, attitudes, and values they need to succeed both in school and beyond.