We are delighted that from Friday 10th April, our weekly Friday morning sessions will now be a Forest School session for all children over 2 years at ECCC. The Forest School will be led by Ian, our Outdoor Education Lead and replace the usual Nursery session.
What is Forest School?
Forest School is a child-centered educational process that takes place in natural environments. It focuses on holistic growth through hands-on experiences, exploration and supported risk-taking. Children engage in activities such as den building, tool usage, fire lighting, nature crafts, and environmental exploration.
Why are we introducing Forest School?
Forest School supports our curriculum value ‘Environmental Accountability: Preparing for life in a changing world’ by giving children opportunities to develop their sense of eco-empathy- their deep connection, love and joy for nature. Forest School:
- Supports children to develop emotional resilience, self esteem and confidence in their ability as learners
- Promotes independence and creative learning
- Nurtures a life long relationship between the learner and natural world
- Offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves
- Supports children to grow a sense of responsibility for the natural world and to see themselves as part of it
- Improves concentration and attention skills
- Supports children’s ability to relate to one another in a collective learning process
Forest school sessions are only for children attending ECCC already at other times of the week, and are not open to one-off bookings.