Forest School at Long Row - 'the only roof is the sky' 

Our Forest School qualified practitioners and First Aider is Mrs Hartley

Our Ethos at Long Row is to ensure that all children are given the opportunity to achieve and develop their confidence and self-esteem by exploring their natural environment through hands on experiential learning.

We feel that Forest Schools is about bringing children outdoors and allowing them the freedom to use their imagination and creativity in ways they may have not done before. Forest Schools is child led, aiming to develop their confidence and encourage an empathy with nature.

The Benefits of Forest School are for all ages - children and adults to express themselves through a variety of activities. Helping to improve motor skills, encourage independence, decision making and team building, enabling children to learn in their own way. Forest School sessions will involve all children over a period of time. The sessions will be run in small groups, visiting our outdoor area on a weekly basis.

They will experience child led activities in a safe environment were they have the freedom to explore a varied range of projects eg- Bush craft skills, crafts, den building, observing wildlife and problem solving. The session will also involve a snack time, free play and games. The session will come to a close with time to reflect on their adventure in Willow Woods.

The children will need to have suitable outdoor footwear, warm layers, warm trousers, a hat and gloves and waterproof clothing if wet. In hot weather please bring a sun hat and sun cream.

Forest schools originated in Scandinavia and was introduced into Britain in 1993 when staff from Bridgwater College visited kindergartens in Scandinavia. The staff were inspired by how pre-school children developed their skills in an outdoor, woodland environment. When they returned to Britain Bridgwater College began to develop what is now known as Forest Schools and are now successfully led all over the country.