Forest School is a child-led outdoor learning approach where children attend regular sessions in a natural environment such as woodland or green outdoor space. Rather than focusing on structured lessons, children are encouraged to explore, investigate and play freely using natural materials.
Skilled practitioners observe and gently guide learning, following each child’s interests and supporting them to develop confidence, independence and a love of learning. Sessions take place in all seasons and weathers, helping children build a strong connection with the natural world.
Why Is Forest School So Valuable For Young Children?
Early childhood is a crucial time for physical, emotional and social development. Forest School supports this by offering experiences that simply cannot be replicated indoors.
Walking on uneven ground, balancing on logs and climbing natural structures all help children develop strength, coordination and spatial awareness. Research shows that children who regularly take part in outdoor learning are up to 50% more physically active than those who do not, contributing positively to their long term health.
Equally important is the emotional impact. Being outdoors encourages calmness, confidence and emotional wellbeing. Children are given time and space to think, problem-solve and try new things at their own pace.
One study found that 79% of children showed improved confidence after participating in Forest School sessions. These small but meaningful achievements help children develop a positive sense of self and a willingness to engage with new challenges.
How Does Forest School Support Learning Across The EYFS?
Forest School naturally supports all areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage. Communication and language develop as children talk through ideas, negotiate roles and share discoveries with friends and adults.
Literacy skills are encouraged through storytelling, mark making in mud or sand, and recognising natural shapes and symbols. Maths comes to life when children count sticks, compare sizes, measure distances or notice patterns in leaves and shells.
Understanding the world is at the heart of Forest School. Children learn about seasons, wildlife and natural processes through firsthand experiences. They observe changes over time, ask questions and begin to develop a sense of care and responsibility for their environment.
Expressive arts and design flourish as children use natural materials to create artwork, music and imaginative play scenarios inspired by the outdoors.
What Makes Forest School Different From Traditional Outdoor Play?
While many nurseries offer outdoor play, Forest School goes much deeper. It is not about short breaks outside or fixed activities. Instead, it is a long term approach built on trust, routine and meaningful engagement with nature.
Children revisit the same environment regularly, allowing them to build familiarity and confidence. Over time, they take greater ownership of their learning, make informed choices and reflect on their experiences.
Forest School also supports appropriate risk-taking. Children learn to assess situations, understand boundaries and manage their own safety with adult guidance. This helps them develop independence and strong decision-making skills that benefit them far beyond the early years.
How Does Jack And Jill’s Day Nursery Bring Forest School To Life?
At Jack and Jill’s Day Nursery in Hemel Hempstead, Forest School is an integral part of the children’s daily experiences. The nursery offers an outstanding Forest School environment where children are encouraged to explore, discover and learn through nature in a safe and nurturing way. Experienced practitioners create engaging sessions that follow children’s interests while supporting their development across all learning areas.
Children at Jack and Jill’s benefit from regular access to outdoor learning that builds confidence, independence and a genuine love for the natural environment. Whether they are building dens, searching for insects or enjoying moments outdoors, every Forest School session is designed to support each child’s individual journey.
Why Is Forest School Such A Strong Foundation For The Future?
Forest School helps children develop skills that last a lifetime. Confidence, independence, teamwork and problem-solving are nurtured naturally through play and exploration.
By giving children the freedom to learn in nature, Forest School lays the foundations for happy, healthy and motivated learners, ready to embrace future challenges with confidence and enthusiasm.