By incorporating outdoor learning experiences, we can positively influence young people’s emotional wellbeing and overall happiness.

We know that ‘good’ mental health in children helps them to:

• Develop and fulfil their potential
• Attend school regularly
• Engage in learning

Welcome to Outdoor Learning and Forest School at Longwick!

Forest School Intent (our aim):

At Longwick C of E Combined school, we understand that Outdoor Learning is an essential part of providing a well-rounded education to our pupils. The freedom to explore, using all their senses and the opportunities to seek knowledge and be curious, offers our children meaningful learning experiences that grow their self-esteem, improve self-awareness and regulation and develop a love and respect for nature. We are committed to creating a safe learning environment that enables every pupil to explore and engage with the natural world as it is proven that these experiences will foster creativity, resilience and improve mental and physical wellbeing.

Forest School Implementation (how we do it):

Our approach to implementing Outdoor Learning is underpinned by the National Curriculum and Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and includes a skills-based programme of activities unique to Forest School. Outdoor Learning is weaved into the existing curriculum and is adapted to suit the diverse needs of our pupils. Each year group will get a term of Forest School (lessons on alternate weeks). We have created a purpose-built outdoor learning area that includes an allotment, wildlife pond, and forest school area. Along with our rich natural learning environment, we have invested in resources and tools that teach pupils specific outdoor learning skills and ensure they can engage safely with the natural world. All children in the school will have opportunities to experience child-led Outdoor Learning alongside Forest School activities and lessons linking to other curriculum areas such as science and art. Our teaching team is trained to deliver high-quality Outdoor Learning activities that meet our intent. Regular staff professional development sessions focused on outdoor learning ensures teachers' skills for teaching outdoors are up-to-date and our teachers are trained to design and deliver customized outdoor learning experiences suited to all our pupils' abilities and needs.

Forest School Impact (how do we know it works?):

At Longwick C of E Combined school, Outdoor Learning has a profound impact on our pupils' academic performance, personal development, and overall wellbeing. Our pupils have improved their physical and mental health through participation in Outdoor Learning, which has improved their resilience, self-regulation and ability to cope with challenges. We have observed that our pupils develop better social skills, including teamwork and communication, through outdoor collaborative activities. It also allows pupils to thrive that do not always find traditional academic subjects easy to access.

Our pupils' creativity has been nurtured by exposure to nature, and this has improved their artistic and literary abilities. We've seen a rise in pupils' academic attainment, particularly in science, as Outdoor Learning has made theoretical concepts come to life, which has enhanced their knowledge and understanding. The same can be seen in maths and STEM activities where their problem-solving capabilities have improved through Forest School exploration.

To sum up, Outdoor Learning has had a tremendous impact on our pupils. They have developed a deeper appreciation for the natural world, which has fostered a sense of responsibility to protect it. We are confident that our approach, aligned with the best practices highlighted in reports deemed outstanding, is positively impacting the lives of our pupils, and this is evidenced by their enthusiasm and engagement during Outdoor Learning activities.

Outdoor Learning nurtures the healthy, whole, curious child which in turn improves behaviour, engagement and even attendance.

Progression of Skills September 2023.odt

Forest School Activities Include:

• Nature and wildlife discovery, observation and appreciation.
• Learning how to respect the outside environment around us.
• Problem solving activities.
• Physical challenges.
• Team building activities.
• Child-initiated play.
• Nature art and craft work.
• Music making.
• Storytelling.
• Using imagination.

The following activities will be closely supervised by the Forest School Leader:

• Campfire building and lighting.
• Cooking on a campfire.
• Working with Forest School tools.

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