At Speenhamland School, we recognise the importance of learning beyond the curriculum and whole-heartedly value incorporating the outdoor environment into our everyday teaching and learning. Therefore, throughout the year and in all seasons, every pupil is provided with a minimum of ten consecutive Forest School sessions, that are coordinated and delivered by Mrs Earl and Mr Page. Using the wooded area on the school field, our pupils learn to challenge their own learning in a variety of contexts this may be: physically, emotionally, socially, spiritually or intellectually as well as developing the five Rs of being respectful, resilient, resourceful, responsible and a risk-taker.
The Forest School programme can be used to support the Speenhamland curriculum as well as deliver new and engaging outdoor skills such as fire lighting, shelter building, use of tools and campfire cooking. Forest School encourages pupils to set their own boundaries, manage risks and take control of their learning in a stimulating environment as well as developing confidence, self-esteem and a greater awareness of themselves, exploring the outdoors and natural habitat.
All pupils are expected to be suitably dressed for Forest School in long-sleeved clothing, long trousers (not denim) with sensible outdoor footwear (trainers, wellies or walking boots) and associated extras dependent on the weather (coats, hats, gloves).
