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Led by our fully qualified Forest School Teacher, Mrs Jiggins, we are delighted to offer an enriching Forest School experience to our pupils at Tolleshunt D’Arcy. Set within our beautiful school grounds, our Forest School environment is a place where children can explore, discover, and grow through meaningful outdoor learning. This aligns closely with our Christian vision of living life in all its fullness, enabling every child to flourish, connect with creation, and develop a deep sense of wonder.
Our woodland-style area is equipped with plentiful resources, including a fire pit, hammocks, a sheltered area, and a range of natural materials that encourage imagination, teamwork, and resilience. Children gain confidence as they learn to take supported risks and develop practical skills in a nurturing outdoor setting.
We begin by offering Forest School to our EYFS pupils as they start school, helping them build independence and curiosity from the very beginning. Throughout the year, every year group enjoys planned Forest School sessions, ensuring all pupils experience the joy and benefits of learning in nature.
Our Forest School Principles
Our Forest School Principles
Our approach follows the nationally recognised Forest School principles, ensuring high-quality, authentic practice:
Long-term, regular sessions
Forest School is delivered through sustained, frequent sessions, giving children time to form strong relationships with the natural world.
A woodland or natural setting
Learning takes place outdoors in a natural space, helping children notice seasonal changes and engage meaningfully with creation.
Supportive, learner-centred practice
Activities are child-led, promoting independence, problem-solving, creativity, and a sense of ownership over learning.
Opportunities for holistic development
Forest School nurtures the whole child—supporting emotional, social, physical, spiritual, and cognitive growth.
Supported risk-taking
Children are encouraged to take appropriate risks, such as using tools or working near the fire pit, within carefully managed safety boundaries.
Run by qualified practitioners
Sessions are delivered by trained and accredited Forest School professionals—such as our own Mrs Jiggins—ensuring safe, skilled, and purposeful outdoor learning.
At Tolleshunt D’Arcy, Forest School offers pupils the chance to live life in all its fullness, developing confidence, resilience, and a lifelong appreciation of the natural world.
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