Forest School is a child-led approach to learning that incorporates children’s right to play, to access the outdoor environment and to feel success. It is a unique way of building independence and self-esteem in young children, exposing them to the natural world at a time where it is vital for children to understand their impact on the environment.  It is a child-centred programme that provides the opportunity for the children to use their personal learning style to complete various activities.

Forest School is a chance for the children at Combs to have new, creative experiences in the outdoor environment in a safe way.  Children will have opportunities to learn about the natural environment, how to handle risks and most importantly to use their own initiative to solve problems, negotiate with others and work as a team.

Through purposeful and careful planning of Forest School sessions, we strive to increase self-confidence, improve children’s concentration, attendance, behaviour and academic achievement. 

We aim to foster a love and respect for wildlife and the environment through stimulating natural learning experiences, inspiring children to value biodiversity and develop a strong understanding of how to promote environmental sustainability. In small groups of no more than 10, the children will experience a minimum of six consecutive sessions in Forest School in order to immerse themselves in nature and deepen their knowledge and understanding of the flora, fauna and living things that surrounds them in their local environment. The Forest School space is utilised all year round, with sessions adapted to compliment the ever-changing conditions, resources and challenges of the natural world through the seasons.