"If children don't grow up knowing about nature and appreciating it, they won't understand it. And if they don't understand it, they won't protect it. And if they don't protect it, who will?"
Sir David Attenborough
Forest School at Southway Junior School is grounded in a belief that children thrive when they are given space to explore, experiment and connect with nature in meaningful ways. Our Forest School environment provides a calm yet stimulating setting where children can develop confidence, independence and emotional resilience through real, hands‑on experiences. The range of activities and opportunities on offer boost social and emotional well-being and development by offering a natural, child-led environment where children have autonomy and freedom to explore their interests and take risks.
Children use their strength to participate in activities such as den building, collecting wood and sawing. They climb, balance and craft- developing their gross motor skills, coordination and agility. They take risks and use tools that build confidence and encourages resilience.
At its heart, Forest School upholds children’s right to play, to access the outdoors, and to engage with the natural world, helping them build a lasting, positive relationship with nature.
Most weeks, children will build and light a fire before being introduced to a range of opportunities which they can choose to take part in if they wish. While some children may choose to use tools and work towards a project, some may work together to build a den or explore and be creative on the site. The seasons, and the children’s own interests, will shape each session meaning no two sessions are ever the same. Towards the end of the session, we come together to share a hot chocolate (made on the fire) and reflect, play games or talk about our surroundings and changing seasons.
“When children come into contact with nature, they reveal their strength” – Maria Montessori
