The Old Station Nursery Forest Schools
The approach of The Old Station Nursery Forest Schools is to encourage freedom for children to explore using their imagination. A child could have read a story about magic, this being enhanced through foraging and finding the perfect wand in the form of a stick. The child then decorates their wand using leaves and twine, all positively contributing to their own learning.
Other children get involved encouraging conversations and experiences to be shared amongst the group. This also allows the Old Station Nursery Forest School team the opportunity to observe and interact as required, such as linking the twine to knots for the group to learn.
Using nature in The Old Station Nursery Forest Schools
Nature itself is a teacher, offering us seasons to plan sessions. This can include an awareness of the mammals we share the land with, such as rabbits, moles, deer, kites and other native birds – providing daily water for hedgehogs or creating fat balls to hang to bring the birds into focus for the children to see. Being conscious of the environment and those we share it with is important for children and encourages making mindful choices which affect the environment.
Risk-taking in Forest School
A fundamental approach within The Old Station Nursery Forest School approach is risk taking whilst being closely observed and supported by adults. Fallen tree branches provide mini ecosystems for fungi and mini beasts, but also climbing frames. The free flow style in the woodland is hugely helpful in allowing the children to understand and experience their own capabilities. We look to provide an environment for children to feel comfortable to take risks. In some cases, the outcome results in a fall, this process contributes to learning how to tackle the risk next time and an understanding of how far they can push themselves to succeed.
Linking Forest School and home
If food is a love in your household, take up gardening. The process of building and tending to a vegetable patch together is hugely beneficial in allowing some one-to-one time. It will encourage time spent outdoors, getting your hands dirty, and growing food to then prepare and share for supper. This is an entire cycle where children can see where food comes from and appreciate the time and effort in the process of tending to plants.
Forest School equipment and training
Equipment
Our Forest Schools are equipped with mud kitchens, fire pits and fire circles and woodwork stations.
Ready for adventure
Your child will wear an Old Station Nursery outdoor jumpsuit to protect their clothes.
Trained staff
The nursery staff will be trained in and will follow The Old Station Nursery Forest School curriculum.
Your Forest School questions answered
Get answers to your questions about Forest School, from the skills your child will learn to the importance of outdoor play and adventure. Our FAQ section covers everything you need to know, including how we incorporate nature-based learning into our sessions, the benefits of outdoor exploration, and how it fosters essential qualities like resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving.
