St Martin de Porres 
Forest School
Intent
Our Forest School curriculum aims to provide learners with opportunities to develop confidence, resilience, and independence through hands-on experiences in a natural environment.
We intend to nurture curiosity, creativity, and a sense of responsibility for the outdoors, while promoting physical and emotional well-being.
By engaging in practical activities and problem-solving tasks, children build teamwork, communication skills, and a lifelong appreciation for nature.
Implementation
We deliver Forest School sessions in our own safe, natural environment where learners engage in practical, hands-on activities such as tool use, fire lighting, and nature-based crafts. Sessions are planned to encourage exploration, teamwork, and problem-solving, while promoting respect for nature and sustainability. Our forest school teacher, Ms Moore, facilitates learning through child-led experiences, ensuring activities are inclusive and adaptable to individual needs. Regular reflection supports personal growth and reinforces key skills such as resilience, communication, and independence.
Forest School
Impact
As a result of our Forest School approach, learners demonstrate increased confidence, resilience, and self-esteem. They develop practical skills, a deeper understanding of the natural world, and a sense of responsibility for the environment. Pupils show improved social and communication skills through collaborative tasks and problem-solving. Forest School contributes positively to mental health and well-being, fostering curiosity and a lifelong appreciation for outdoor learning.
We want all of our children to:
- Show spiritual growth through appreciation of nature.
- Demonstrate moral responsibility by caring for the environment.
- Exhibit strong social skills through teamwork and leadership.
- Gain cultural capital by learning traditional outdoor skills and understanding sustainability.