Forest School

Forest School Leads: Mrs. Berry and Mrs. Walker

Intent

At Holden Clough Primary School, our Forest School programme is designed to nurture the whole child through immersive, hands-on experiences in nature. We aim to:

  • Develop resilience, independence, and confidence through outdoor learning.

  • Foster a deep respect for the natural environment and sustainable practices.

  • Equip pupils with practical life skills such as tool use, knot tying, and shelter building.

  • Support emotional well-being, creativity, and teamwork in a natural setting.

  • Provide progressive, age-appropriate experiences that build on prior knowledge and skills from Year 1 through Year 6.


Implementation

Our Forest School curriculum is carefully structured across the academic year to ensure progression and depth:

Year 1: In the summer term, pupils are introduced to the Rules of the Forest and engage in Mini Shelter Building, laying the foundation for safe, respectful, and imaginative outdoor learning.

Autumn Term:

Year 2 & 3 focus on Forest Management, developing environmental awareness and stewardship.

Years 4–6 build teamwork and problem-solving skills through Knot Tying and Shelter Building.

Spring Term:

All pupils in Years 2–6 engage in Tool Use, learning to handle tools safely and responsibly, building fine motor skills and confidence.

Summer Term:

Pupils revisit Knot Tying and Shelter Building (Y2) and explore Natural Art (Y3–Y6), encouraging creativity, mindfulness, and a deeper connection to nature.

Sessions are led by trained Forest School leaders in our dedicated outdoor learning environment. Activities are child-led where possible, with opportunities for exploration, risk-taking, and reflection.


Impact

By the end of each academic year, pupils at Holden Clough will:

  • Demonstrate increased confidence, resilience, and independence.

  • Show improved collaboration and communication skills.

  • Apply practical outdoor skills with competence and safety.

  • Exhibit a strong sense of environmental responsibility and care.

  • Reflect positively on their experiences, contributing to their overall well-being and personal development.

Pupil voice, observational assessments, and photographic evidence are used to monitor progress and celebrate achievements. Forest School is a valued part of our curriculum, enriching the lives of our pupils and supporting their growth beyond the classroom.

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