Outdoor Learning and Forest School

Learning Beyond the Classroom

At Sarum St Paul's, we believe that some of the most memorable learning happens outdoors.

Our school grounds and Forest School area provide children with regular opportunities to explore, discover and learn through hands-on experiences in nature. Led by our qualified Forest School Practitioner, our outdoor learning programme incorporates Forest School principles and is an important part of life at our school. It reflects our vision of Rooted in Love, Growing Together, helping children to develop confidence, resilience, curiosity and an appreciation of the natural world.

Whether children are investigating minibeasts, building shelters, creating natural artwork or simply taking time to notice the changing seasons, every session encourages children to learn through exploration, challenge and reflection.

Did You Know?

🌿 Every child enjoys regular outdoor learning as part of their time at Sarum St Paul's.

🌳 From September, Reception children will take part in outdoor learning every week, with sessions based on Forest School principles as a key part of their Early Years curriculum.

🍃 Sessions are led by a qualified Forest School Practitioner and supported by members of our teaching assistant team.

🍂 Learning takes place in almost all weather conditions. With suitable clothing, children discover that every season brings exciting new opportunities to learn and explore.

🔬 Outdoor learning plays an important role in supporting our Science curriculum, giving children first-hand opportunities to observe, investigate and explore the natural world.

💚 Outdoor learning helps children develop confidence, resilience, independence and a lifelong appreciation of the natural world.

Why Outdoor Learning Matters

Spending time outdoors supports children's development in many different ways. Through regular sessions, children develop:

• confidence and resilience by taking on new challenges

• independence, creativity and problem-solving skills

• teamwork, communication and language skills

• an appreciation of nature and the environment

• positive mental health and emotional wellbeing

• respect for themselves, others and God's creation

• opportunities to apply and deepen classroom learning in meaningful ways.

Outdoor learning provides valuable opportunities to reinforce learning across the curriculum, particularly in Science, where children can observe seasonal change, explore habitats, identify plants and animals, investigate materials and develop scientific enquiry skills through real-life experiences. It also enriches learning in other areas of the curriculum.

What Happens During a Session?

Every session is carefully planned whilst remaining flexible enough to follow children's interests, the changing seasons and opportunities that arise through classroom learning. Activities may include:

• den and shelter building

• bug hunting and habitat exploration

• nature identification

• creating artwork using natural materials

• scavenger hunts and nature trails

• outdoor games and physical challenges

• storytelling and imaginative play

• sensory exploration

• teamwork and problem-solving activities

• quiet reflection and mindfulness in nature.

Sessions are practical, active and child-centred, encouraging children to explore, investigate and work together.

Learning in Every Season

Outdoor learning takes place throughout the year and in almost all weather conditions. Children soon learn that every season brings something different, from searching for signs of spring and collecting autumn treasures to exploring mud, frost and puddles during the winter months.

We encourage children to embrace the outdoors safely and confidently by wearing suitable clothing for the weather. All children must have wellies to take part at all times of the year.

A Place to Grow

Outdoor learning is about far more than spending time outside. By incorporating Forest School principles, children become confident, resilient young people who are willing to have a go, work together, solve problems and care for the world around them.

These experiences support children's academic learning while also nurturing their social, emotional and spiritual development. By spending time in nature, children learn to be curious, respectful and reflective, developing skills and attitudes that will benefit them throughout their lives.

'Forest School makes us feel happy and calm. Nature is a very beautiful place.'

Year 1 pupil

'I love that you can learn new things!'

Year 2 pupil

 'It's good, I REALLY enjoy it!'

Year 1 pupil

When we do Forest School we learn how much we should appreciate nature.' 

Year 4 pupil

 'I like it because you can express yourself.'

Year 5 pupil

 'We know how to look after the environment and be more careful around birds and animals'.

Year 4 pupil