We have a very successful Forest School programme at Kings Nympton, led by Mrs Mandy Blacker, who has the Level 3 Qualification in Forest School Leadership.

Forest School is a child-centred inspirational learning process that offers opportunities for holistic growth through regular sessions. It is a long-term programme that supports play, exploration and supported risk-taking.  It develops confidence and self-esteem through learner-inspired, hands-on experiences in a natural setting.  Its roots reach back to the open-air culture, friluftsliv, or free air life, seen as a way of life in Scandinavia where Forest School began.  It arrived in the UK in 1993 and has grown from strength to strength.

The Kings Nympton Forest School programme provides the children across the school with a fun, exciting way to learn in an outdoor setting.  We are lucky enough to undertake our Forest School activities offsite in woodland just outside the village.  Classes enjoy whole days at Forest School.  It takes place in all weathers (unless it is VERY windy or icy!). A typical day at Forest School includes an activity to learn about nature; fire lighting using strikers; den building; playing on the rope swing/slack line/hammock; a woodland craft activity; using tools; cooking over the campfire and paddling in the river. It is proven to improve children’s confidence, self-esteem and communication skills, as well as giving them an opportunity to have lots of fun! The children also develop skills in team work, using tools safely and learn about looking after our woodlands. 

Forest School is an integral part of our curriculum; it is not a bolt-on to our classroom offer.  Children in Class 1 were recently asked to write about their 'happy place' and two of them wrote about Forest School.  It is a very important place for our school. 

For more information about Forest School, click here.