Forest Schools at Buxworth Primary School

At Buxworth Primary School we want children to reach their full potential in physical, intellectual, emotional, aesthetic, social and spiritual growth. Therefore, Forest School skills are carefully nurtured from EYFS to Y6, through the progression of learning independence (getting dressed/undressed, personal hygiene, washing equipment to keeping safe) We encourage the children to transfer skills from the indoors to the outdoor natural environment, under the canopy of trees: ‘An outdoor classroom’.

We aim to provide an area where children learn through their senses, work collaboratively with adults to learn new physical skills (tying knots, fire lighting skills and safe tool use) so therefore promoting children to problem solve, take risks, and develop a caring attitude to others and the natural environment. The children use Reflective Practice at the end of a session during Log Circle time.      

Curriculum Threads:

• To use through ‘Plan, Do, Review, Next Steps’ method appropriate to each Key Stage following children’s interests from their preferred schematic playing patterns to more complex skills as they progress through to Y6. These include problem solving, creative activities, critical thinking and intertextuality (Curriculum Topics).
• To explore and name the fauna and flora on offer in the natural environment and experience the seasonal changes of weather conditions.
• To follow Forest School Education (FSE) guidelines when fire lighting with flints, cooking and giving  safe tool talks.
• To develop communication and linguistic skills, self- esteem, self-belief, and emotional intelligence in each individual child and reflect on Buxworth Project 25 values as they naturally occur in the outdoor Forest School areas. (See Forest School weekly and termly planning sessions.)