Forest School at Little Pippins
The Forest School Association describes Forest School “as an inspirational process that offers all learners regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands on learning experiences in a woodland or natural environment with trees”.
We aim to provide forest school sessions to every child over their time at Little Pippins.
Alice Hanks Forest School Leader – ” I believe that the great outdoors is such a magical resource. It’s important to me that the children experience what the great outdoors has to offer and get the chance to explore with confidence.
What will your child do?
The sessions are child led to allow the children to become little adventurers, climbers, diggers, hunters, den builders and much much more! The leaders are there to keep the children safe, observe and give them help when needed but will be led by the children as much as possible.
We also have a fire circle! Don’t panic though, this is a gradual process, starting off with a candle in a lantern, then a small fire in a colander, followed by a fire that they will be able to use a stick to bake those very own fireside bread! The children learn about fire safety and we will only move on through the process if the leader feels the children are ready.
Where and When?
Forest School is held on-site at Little Pippins. The site is on the left as you enter the car park, and the second site is at the far end of the car park.
Sessions take place at least twice a week, with additional ad hoc sessions when the children require. We strive to ensure that all children have the opportunity to participate.
What Does Your Child Need?
For every session your child needs wellies, a long sleeved top and joggers or leggings. When it is cold they will need a coat, hat and gloves. Little Pippins will provide waterproofs and a sun hat and sun cream in the summer. It is important that they have warm clothing when it is cold. Having the right equipment gives the children the ability to fully engross in the Forest School session.
Can you have snack in Forest School?
Snack is a special time at Forest School. We all sit around the log circle and discuss what amazing things we have discovered. There is a hand washing station and once they have washed away the mud they sit down and enjoy a lovely snack – sometimes even a special treat of hot chocolate and a biscuit. To fit in with the ethos of Forest School all of our snacks will be Fair Trade and locally sourced. Our soap will also be environmentally friendly.
Caught on Camera!
We take photos during the Forest School sessions and the children’s’ experiences and adventures are recorded on their Tapestry learning journal for you to see. We may also create a photo displays within the pre-school.
Forest School Leader …
The Leaders are there to keep the children safe, observe and give them help when needed. Alice Hanks is our current Forest school leader who has qualified with flying colours. Alice is supported by Trudie Strong who is also a Forest School leader as well as all the other members of the team who have the opportunity to be at one with the trees during the seasons!
Want to know more?
If you have any questions or worries about Forest School please come and speak to us.
We are very lucky at Little Pippins to be able to offer this amazing experience to our children. I am sure they are going to enjoy it as much as the adults do!
HOW DO CHILDREN BENEFIT FROM ATTENDING FOREST SCHOOL?
Learning Through The Seasons
It’s all about giving your child the chance to learn and grow through fun, hands-on experiences in the great outdoors.
Forest School immerses children in nature through all four seasons, each offering unique benefits. In spring, children explore new growth and wildlife; summer is perfect for extended outdoor play; autumn’s colors and falling leaves enhance sensory experiences; winter teaches resilience and appreciation of nature’s quiet beauty. This year-round connection to nature promotes physical health and emotional well-being.
Spring
Spring is like a big, colourful painting! Bright flowers cover the ground, and little green buds start to grow on the trees.
Summer
Summer is when everything is bright green, and the warm sunlight shines through the trees, making the forest feel cosy and warm.
Autumn
Autumn is when leaves fall down and make a red, gold, and orange carpet on the ground that makes a fun rustling sound when you walk on it.
Winter
Winter is when the mornings are cold and frosty, a blanket of white snow may cover everything, and it’s very quiet all around while the animals and mini beasts nestle down.