Forest School
🌿 Forest School at Eye C of E Preschool
At Eye C of E Preschool, we believe every child is a natural-born explorer. Our wonderful outdoor spaces are full of exciting opportunities for adventure, where little explorers can investigate nature, follow their curiosity and learn through hands-on experiences. From discovering minibeasts and collecting treasures to building dens and exploring the world around them, every day brings a new adventure!🌳
When Do We Go?
We venture into Forest School flexibly throughout the year, ensuring all children experience the magic of outdoor learning in different seasons and weather conditions. Outdoor learning provides endless opportunities to develop communication and language, problem-solving, creativity and social skills, all while supporting children's physical and emotional wellbeing.
Independence from the Very First Step
Our journey begins before we even step outside. We empower children to become independent by keeping their wellies and puddle suits easily accessible for them. Putting on their own outdoor forest school belongings builds a sense of ownership, confidence, and self-reliance that sets the tone for the whole day.
Big Learning for Little Adventurers
Forest School is more than just outdoor play - it is a powerful educational approach. When children learn in nature, it benefits the whole child simultaneously. Here is how our explorers grow:
Physical Health & Balance
Running, climbing, and navigating uneven ground build robust gross motor skills, core strength, and coordination.
Sensory Integration
The whisper of leaves, the crunch of twigs, and the squish of mud provide rich sensory input that helps young brains develop and regulate their senses.
Safe Risk-Taking
Scaling a log, balancing on a branch, or managing outdoor tools teaches children to safely test their limits, boosting self-esteem and body awareness.
Self-Directed Resilience
When children lead their own play, they become active problem-solvers. This child-led discovery fuels curiosity and builds lasting resilience.
Our Forest School Setting
Outdoor Exploration Area
A natural space where children can freely explore, discover, and connect with the world around them.
Whether they are climbing, balancing, collecting natural treasures, investigating minibeasts or simply enjoying the freedom of open space, every outdoor experience offers something new to learn. Most importantly, we want our children to develop a love of nature, a sense of adventure and the confidence to explore the world around them.
The Cabin
Our lovely cabin is where creativity truly comes alive. Children can:
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Use natural materials they have found outdoors
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Combine them with resources from our arts and crafts area
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Settle down with a story if they wish
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Create, imagine, and express themselves in their own unique ways
At Eye C of E Preschool, Forest School is where independence, imagination, and a love of learning naturally grow together.
