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Year 3 Apple week 1

There was high levels of excitement as we made our way down to the site—many of the children had never visited before, which made it even more special. On our journey, we began thinking about our nature names, as at Forest School we leave our classroom names behind. Sitting together around the fire circle, everyone shared their chosen name. We spent some time learning about the canopy, exploring the Forest School site, and discovering the wildlife that visits. To help us get familiar with our surroundings, the children went on a quick hunt to find key features of the site—everything from a den and pinecone to the swing, flag, wildlife camera, water source, and even a newly planted tree. Then it was time to get busy! Den building was incredibly popular, with children learning how to tie simple knots using withy ropes, carry sticks safely (especially when they were bigger than them!), and work together to create entrances, trenches, and even flag posts for their shelters. There were so m...
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Aspen Class week 2

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  A blustery but brilliant morning at Forest School for Aspen Class today! We began by noticing how the woodland has changed since our last visit — the blossom has now disappeared from the cherry trees, a sure sign the seasons are moving on. Around the fire circle, we checked in with our nature names before learning all about pollinators. Mrs. Sunderland used a bee made from pipe cleaners and breadsticks as “pollen” to show how bees transfer pollen from flower to flower while collecting nectar. The children then brought this learning to life in a lively Bees and Flowers game, exploring pollination through play.  After that, it was time for activities. The hammock was a favourite today — one child was so relaxed they nearly fell asleep! We used the bow saw to cut wood cookies and decorate them, while den building was as popular as ever. Wood chopping also drew lots of interest, with children taking on a challenge to see who could make the thinnest shavings. There was great focu...
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Apple Class week 2

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What a beautiful day under bright blue skies for Apple Class at Forest School! We started our morning with a special spotting activity, using cards with words and colours like straight , bumpy , and furry to notice things along the way down to our site. The children were so observant and excited to share what they found! Once we arrived, we gathered in our circle to check in, using our nature names and adding fun actions to go with them. I We then explored the area to see what had changed since last week. The children noticed that the cherry blossom had fallen and that our wildlife camera had been moved—great spotting! This led us into learning all about pollinators. 🐝🌸 We played an energetic game on the field, acting as bees and flowers, which everyone loved. Back at the site, the children got busy with hands-on activities. Some used the bow saw to cut hazel wood and decorated their pieces to create beautiful bees. Others enjoyed de-building, and some flew kites for the first ...
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Year 3 Aspen Week 1

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  What a fantastic first Forest School session for Aspen Class (Year 3) this morning!   There was high levels of excitement as we made our way down to the site—many of the children had never visited before, which made it even more special. On our journey, we began thinking about our nature names, as at Forest School we leave our classroom names behind. Sitting together around the fire circle, everyone shared their chosen name. We spent some time learning about the canopy, exploring the Forest School site, and discovering the wildlife that visits. To help us get familiar with our surroundings, the children went on a quick hunt to find key features of the site—everything from a den and pinecone to the swing, flag, wildlife camera, water source, and even a newly planted tree. Then it was time to get busy! Den building was incredibly popular, with children learning how to tie simple knots using withy ropes, carry sticks safely (especially when they were bigger than them!), and wor...
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Hazel Class Week 4

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  What a brilliant way to finish our Forest School sessions with Year 5! Group 1 joined us yesterday in very blustery, gusty conditions – but we embraced it!   The children worked in small teams on a den building challenge, designing and constructing shelters that were as wind and storm-proof as possible. Each den had to be freestanding, include a flag and a team name, and be big enough to shelter two children. There was fantastic teamwork, problem-solving and lots of discussion about strong structures. We put the dens to the test using the classic “water and watering can” challenge… and not everyone stayed dry!   It was a tough but fun morning in the wind, followed by great fun on the field using the spinnaker as a giant parachute and flying kites. Group 2 had a completely different experience today – calm, sunny skies and not a breath of wind!   We made the most of it with toasted marshmallows around the fire. The children also took part in the water...
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Hazel class Week 3

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What a fantastic session we had today! We began with a calm and mindful activity, carefully making our own elder beads – a lovely way to slow down and connect with nature. The children then took on a mini fire challenge in small groups. They showed brilliant teamwork, thinking carefully about location, safety, and how to keep their fire going for a full three minutes. Using their metal trays (securely weighed down!) and having water close by, they demonstrated great responsibility and resilience. Those who were successful enjoyed toasting mini marshmallows – a well-earned treat! To finish, we made delicious garlic pitta bread using foraged wild garlic. Some children were unsure at first, but many were surprised at just how tasty it was!
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