Spending regular time in nature is a wonderful chance for children to connect with nature and enhance their wellbeing. The Forest School-inspired sessions suit a range of learning styles and engage children in various ways and are a safe, non-judgemental environment to try new things and take risks and encourages emotional and physical development through outdoor play and exploration.

Our programmes are usually formed of six two-hour sessions, undertaken across a half term, on a regular day or over a longer period. The content of the programme can be led by the tutor in discussion with school staff, to create a suitable learning experience. The tutor will use effective teaching and learning techniques, including playing and exploring, active learning and creating, and thinking critically adjusting their practice appropriately.

Learning Objectives

  • Make careful observations of the natural world.
  • Demonstrate respect and care for the natural environment and all living things.
  • Interact positively with the outside world.
  • Demonstrate strength, balance and coordination when playing.
  • Be confident to try new activities and show independence, resilience and perseverance in the face of challenge.
  • Show an understanding of their own feelings and those of others.
  • Take supported risks appropriate to the individual child.
  • Confidently explore, relate to others and solve problems.
  • Use a range of small tools.

Example Timetable

The course normally runs 10am – 12pm or 1pm - 3pm.

First Session

  • This will enable the children to settle into the location, they will become familiar with the site, what activities might be available to them and how to keep themselves safe.

Following Sessions

  • The sessions will be adapted from Field Studies Council Curriculum linked sessions.
  • They can also encompass a range of outdoor activities which may include:
    - Nature discovery and Natural exploration
    - Bushcraft including tool use, fire lighting, shelters (* Not available at every location)
    - Team building, Physical Play and Sensory Games.

How this course fulfills the specification

Early Years Learning Goals - The Natural World

  • Explore the natural World around them, making observations, drawing pictures of animals and plants.
  • Know some similarities and differences between the natural world around them and contrasting environments, drawing on their experiences and what they have read in class.
  • Understand some important processes and changes in the Natural world around them, including the seasons and changing states of matter.

Added value of this course

  • Develop personal skills
  • Have fun
  • Be inspired by a passion for the subject
  • Build friendships

Related Information

Customer Information
Details of how to book, terms and conditions, policies and procedures, including risk assessments, can be found on our website here.

Variation
The outline shown is indicative. Whilst we do our best to deliver the agreed programme, we sometimes must change the programme due to for example, weather, access to sites, or staffing issues. Most changes are insignificant and will not affect your trip.

Liaison
This programme is designed to meet the curriculum/specification requirements.
Prior to your visit, one of the Tutors leading your group will be in touch via email. This is an opportunity for us to find out more about the group and to make small adjustments to meet your groups needs.

Tuition
Tuition is delivered by Field Studies Council Tutors, with an expert knowledge of the subject and fieldwork locations, and a passion for the subject being taught. The education team are DBS checked, and undergo regular training including in first aid, water safety and risk assessments.

Transport
There is no requirement for transport during the day. All activities take place on site or within walking distance.

Teaching groups
Your group will be divided into an agreed number of taught groups at the point of booking. This may not match your normal classes. Please subdivide the taught group into subgroups in advance of your visit, discuss with the Tutor at liaison how many subgroups are required.

Teachers and supporting adults
The school should provide teachers and support staff, or parents, to meet minimum ratios per teaching group. Teachers and adults are expected to participate and support the student's learning. Teachers are expected to manage behaviour & support group management, and to supervise break and lunch times.

What to bring
A kit list can be found on our website here. Please adjust this based on the weather conditions. Ensure the group bring lunch and plenty to drink.

Clothing and footwear
Appropriate outdoor clothing (and waterproofs) should be worn, taking into account the weather forecast. The group will be outside most of the day, even in wet weather. It is advised that long trousers are worn, even on sunny days due to the presence of ticks. We advise wearing sensible footwear – trainers or walking boots that can get muddy.

Why Choose Field Studies Council?

  • Expert tuition by fully trained staff

  • Stunning locations across the UK

  • Outstanding curriculum knowledge

  • Rigorous health and safety procedures

  • Support before and after your visit

  • Free places for visiting staff