At Leck St Peter’s, we believe that spending time in nature helps children grow in confidence, curiosity and respect for the world around them. Our Forest School programme provides regular, meaningful outdoor experiences that nurture a lifelong connection with the natural environment and encourage environmentally responsible attitudes and behaviours in both children and adults. Through these experiences, we aim to support children’s physical, social, emotional, cognitive, linguistic and spiritual development, helping them to flourish as individuals.

Where possible, sessions take place regularly throughout the year with the same group of children, enabling them to experience the changing seasons and develop a deeper understanding of the natural world around them.

Our Forest School programme encourages children to explore, discover and learn through hands-on experiences in nature. Children take part in activities throughout the year and in a variety of weather conditions, wearing appropriate clothing and learning to appreciate how the environment changes across the seasons.

Children are encouraged to follow agreed expectations, work cooperatively with others, develop positive relationships, and show respect for themselves, each other and the environment. These values reflect the caring Christian ethos that is at the heart of our school community.

The outdoor spaces at Leck St Peter’s provide rich opportunities for exploration, creativity and discovery. Natural materials and features inspire imaginative play, problem-solving and independent learning, encouraging children to take ownership of their experiences and develop intrinsic motivation.

Aims of Forest School lessons:

• Children develop a deep appreciation and understanding of the natural world, building a strong connection with their local environment and a sense of responsibility for caring for it.

• Children grow in confidence and resilience, learning to make thoughtful decisions, assess risks safely and embrace new challenges with increasing independence.

• Children develop healthy minds and bodies through active outdoor learning experiences that support their physical, emotional and mental wellbeing.

• Children become creative and adaptable thinkers who are willing to explore new ideas, persevere through challenges and approach problem-solving with curiosity and imagination.