Our Forest School has grown from nothing into something really special, built with a lot of passion, hard work and dedication. What started as just an idea is now a thriving part of life at Trinity. I (Mrs Searle) have poured my heart into creating it, and it’s something I am so proud of.

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At Forest School, children are learning together to enjoy life in all its fullness. It’s not just about being outdoors – it’s about the whole experience. We’ve got our fire circle, wildlife pond, growing areas, and of course our much-loved animals – goats, pigs, chickens, rabbits and guinea pigs. The children get hands-on with everything, whether that’s helping to care for the animals, planting seeds, or cooking over the fire. Sustainability runs through all we do, from composting and recycling to learning how to look after the land and live responsibly.

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How Forest School Connects to Our Curriculum Values

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Academic Excellence → Successful Learners & Knowledgeable Participants

Forest School is full of learning. Children deepen their knowledge of science and nature – things like lifecycles, food production, habitats and biodiversity. They explore, question, and test out their ideas, which helps them make sense of their classroom learning in a practical way. This makes them Successful Learners, able to apply knowledge with confidence, and Knowledgeable Participants in the world around them.

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Character Education → Caring Citizens & Confident Individuals
This is where you see children really shine. Forest School gives them the chance to take on challenges, to be resilient, to work together and to solve problems in the real world.

It’s also a place where they can safely take manageable risks – whether that’s balancing on a log, lighting a fire, or using a tool. This independence helps them grow in confidence and builds self-esteem. The joy of seeing a child realise, “I can do this!” is what Forest School is all about. In these moments, children grow into Caring Citizens, looking after each other and our animals, and Confident Individuals, ready to face new challenges.

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 Metacognition → Healthy Thinkers
Because sessions are child-led, children naturally reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and how they could try things differently. Whether they’re cooking, building, or caring for animals, they’re constantly thinking about their own thinking – learning how to problem-solve, adapt and persevere. These reflective learning processes help them become Healthy Thinkers, with the tools to manage challenges and approach life with resilience.

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Why Every Child Should Experience Forest School

I believe every child should have Forest School in their lives. It develops the whole child – socially, emotionally and physically. The benefits are huge:

• 🌟 growing in confidence and self-esteem

• 💪 building strength, stamina and coordination

• 🗣️ improving communication and teamwork through shared challenges

• 🌍 learning how to care for the environment and value nature

• 🧘 finding calm and managing stress by being outdoors
   

Forest School in the Community

Forest School doesn’t stop with the children. It’s something that connects us with the wider community. We’ve already taken part in the ARCHIE Project with Watermeadow Grange, where our children learned about dementia and made meaningful connections with the residents. This year we want to build on that by bringing the residents into Forest School. Our hope is that the children and residents will grow food together, share stories, and celebrate around the fire. These experiences will be special for both the young and the old, and we’re really excited to see them happen.

Parents and local organisations also play a big part – whether that’s helping with projects, joining our Eco-Team, or supporting us with animal care and fundraising. It really is something that belongs to all of us.

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Our Legacy

Forest School is now firmly part of Trinity’s identity. From muddy boots to big smiles, it has given our children something they will carry with them for life: resilience, respect, and a love of the outdoors.

For me personally, it’s been a labour of love. What started from scratch is now a space that brings joy, learning and togetherness every single day – and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve created.

Above all, Forest School is a place where children truly are learning together to enjoy life in all its fullness.