Forest School at St Francis' Primary
in the North Somerset Times
Forest Tots in the North Somerset Times
Children from St Francis Primary School, in Station Road, are enjoying weekly forest school sessions to enable them to learn more about the environment. Pupils have made dens and hunted for natural wooden treasures during the classes.
A school spokesman said: “Children at St Francis have been enjoying weekly forest school sessions this term as part of their broad and balanced curriculum." “The children have relished the opportunity to develop their team work, communication, independence and thinking skills as well as enjoying the wonderful outdoor environment.”
One child said: “I like building dens because we work as a team. Another pupil added: “It has made our class’s teamwork stronger with everyone, not just our friends.”
A class which introduces young children to the environment has been launched in Congresbury.
Yeo Vale Forest School has started its Forest Tots course, giving youngsters the chance to play and learn in one of the prettiest parts of North Somerset under expert supervision.
The sessions are held at the picturesque Cadbury Hill and they give children under the age of five the opportunity to get their hands dirty, while learning more about the world around them.
The classes are led by level three forest school leaders and experienced teachers, and are certain to provide educational entertainment for little ones – who gain more understanding of North Somerset’s nature and wildlife.
The classes are held on Tuesdays from 1.30-2.30pm and cost £5 per child.
Staff training
Inclusivity and child-centred learning is at the heart of all we do, and that's why we continue to keep our own training up to date.
The Autism Awareness in Forest School Workshop, run by Michael James and Hedge-U-Cation in Blackawton in late October, was inspirational and will help us to do our best for everyone.
We learnt how to spot and manage different behaviours, and the triggers which can cause anxiety. Most poignantly of all, we accepted that simply being out in the woods with all its noises, colours and movement is enough for some to benefit from Forest School.