Forest School at Prenton Prep
Prenton Prep Forest School
At Prenton Preparatory School, we are delighted to introduce our Forest School, a unique outdoor learning experience designed for pupils from Reception to Year 5. Nestled in a natural woodland setting, our Forest School provides an inspiring environment where children can explore, discover, and develop essential life skills through hands-on experiences in nature.
What is Forest School?
Forest School is an educational approach that encourages children to develop confidence, resilience, and independence through outdoor learning. Sessions are child-led and focus on exploration, teamwork, and problem-solving, fostering a deep connection with nature while building essential skills.
What Will Pupils Experience?
During Forest School sessions, pupils will engage in activities such as:
Den building – Enhancing teamwork and creativity
Fire lighting and outdoor cooking – Learning responsibility and safety skills
Wildlife identification – Encouraging curiosity about the natural world
Nature crafts – Using natural materials to create art and build structures
Tool use – Developing practical skills and confidence under close supervision
Risk-taking in a safe environment – Helping children grow resilience and problem-solving abilities
Why Forest School?
Research shows that outdoor learning has significant benefits for children, including:
Boosting self-esteem and confidence
Enhancing problem-solving and teamwork skills
Encouraging creativity and independence
Supporting emotional well-being and resilience
Improving physical health through active play
The Forest School concept originated in Scandinavia and was introduced to the UK in the early 1990s. It is a learner-led approach that allows children to explore and take risks in a safe, controlled environment at their own pace. Through these experiences, they develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and independence.
At Prenton Preparatory School, Miss Gill leads our Forest School sessions, guiding pupils from Reception to Year 5 through a range of outdoor activities. Children will learn practical skills, engage with nature, and, most importantly, have lots of fun—whether that means building shelters, identifying plants and wildlife, or getting muddy in the process!
Miss Gill has completed a level 3 Forest Leaders' course as well as a specialised Forest School First Aid course. The safety of the children is her number one priority, so any use of the tools will be taught 1 to 1 and in a controlled manner.
Typical Forest School Session
A typical Forest School session might involve: exploring, digging, making up imaginative stories, running, building, tying knots, making shelters, bug hunts, making fires, using tools and climbing trees.
There is a fire pit, and again, the lighting of a fire will always be in a controlled manner.
The children should come to school on that day wearing suitable clothing, clothing that you don't mind getting dirty and is suitable for the weather. Forest School will continue except in very cold and windy weather. As they say, "There is no bad weather, just bad clothing".
Children love the freedom of Forest School and many say it's the best part of the week. It's a great way for children to connect with nature, learn new skills and have fun.
Join the Adventure!
Our Forest School sessions take place throughout the year, allowing pupils to experience the changing seasons and develop a deep appreciation for the environment. No matter the weather, children are encouraged to embrace outdoor learning, developing a lifelong love for nature.
We can’t wait for our pupils to embark on this exciting journey of discovery, adventure, and growth!