Forest School | Queen Ethelburga's | Independent Primary School

Forest School At Chapter House

A happy childhood begins in the great outdoors, and at Chapter House, our Forest School provides the perfect environment for children to spend time exploring, discovering and having fun. From searching for minibeasts and climbing trees to building dens and hiding from the Gruffalo, every session offers opportunities for adventure and imaginative play

Our Forest School is led by trained Level 3 Forest School Practitioners, Miss Catton, Miss Hayes and Mrs Sumner. Sessions are planned around the seasons and the children’s interests, allowing them to explore the natural world at their own pace.

Set within a large, natural ancient woodland where English bluebells grow, our Forest School offers a unique space for children to play, explore and discover. Activities include creating with natural materials, cooking over a campfire, learning to identify local flora and fauna, and developing confidence through appropriate risk-taking in a safe and supportive environment.

Chapter House pupil in Forest School at Queen Ethelburga's

The Forest School is the perfect playground for children to spend their afternoons.
A Happy Childhood Begins In The Great Outdoors

Children at Explorers Nursery and in EYFS attend weekly Forest School sessions. For children in Years 1 to 5, Forest School forms part of their curriculum for one half-term block each year, with five to six weeks of two-hour sessions, come rain or shine.

Promoting Hands-On Learning

The forest is a wonderful environment for children to develop social skills, independence and collaborative play. They are encouraged to use natural materials to build dens, construct vehicles and use their imaginations to bring their creations to life.

With the support of our experienced staff, children are also encouraged to develop confidence, problem-solving skills and an understanding of risk through activities such as climbing trees and roasting marshmallows around the campfire.