By Shane, Dallington School’s Qualified Forest School Teacher
Forest School is an approach to learning that takes children beyond the classroom and into the natural world, where curiosity, creativity and confidence can truly flourish. At Dallington, Forest School is a much-loved and integral part of our curriculum, offering children regular opportunities to learn, explore and grow through meaningful experiences outdoors.
What Is Forest School?
Forest School is a child-centred, outdoor learning approach that supports the holistic development of children through regular sessions in a natural environment. Rooted in long-term, hands-on experiences, it encourages children to take supported risks, build resilience, develop independence and form a deep connection with nature.
Rather than focusing on outcomes or worksheets, Forest School places value on the process of learning. Children are given the time and space to follow their interests, work collaboratively, problem-solve and reflect on their experiences and all guided by a qualified Forest School practitioner.
What Do Children Do in Forest School?
Every Forest School session is different, shaped by the seasons, the environment and the children themselves. At Dallington, our Forest School experiences are rich, practical and full of imagination. Some of the activities our children enjoy include:
Creative Nature Art
Using natural materials such as mud, leaves and sticks, children create expressive mud masks and faces on tree trunks. These activities encourage creativity, fine motor skills and self-expression, while also fostering respect for the natural environment. Children learn to see nature as a source of inspiration rather than something to be used up.
Survival and Practical Skills
Forest School offers children the chance to learn essential outdoor skills in a safe and supportive way. Activities may include building shelters, learning about fire safety and fire lighting (age-appropriate), tying knots and working together to solve practical challenges. These experiences help children build confidence, resilience and a strong sense of achievement.
Scavenger Hunts and Exploration
Scavenger hunts are a wonderful way to sharpen observation skills and encourage teamwork. Children search for natural objects, follow clues and explore their surroundings with purpose and excitement. Along the way, they develop problem-solving skills and a growing awareness of the natural world around them.
Understanding Plants, Animals and Habitats
Through hands-on exploration, children learn to recognise plants, trees and local wildlife. We talk about flora and fauna, animal habitats and seasonal changes, helping children build environmental awareness and respect for living things. These experiences lay strong foundations for science learning while nurturing a sense of stewardship for the planet.
Why Forest School Matters
Forest School supports children’s emotional wellbeing, physical development and social skills. Being outdoors encourages movement, reduces stress and allows children to take healthy risks at their own pace. Working together in nature strengthens communication, empathy and collaboration, all values that sit at the heart of Dallington’s ethos.
Forest School also supports confidence and independence. When children are trusted to use tools, explore freely and make decisions, they develop a strong sense of self-belief and pride in their abilities.
Forest School at Dallington
At Dallington, Forest School reflects our commitment to nurturing the whole child. Sessions are led by our fully qualified Forest School teacher and are carefully planned to be inclusive, engaging and responsive to children’s interests. Our approach aligns closely with our values of creativity, individuality, play and enjoying the journey.
Forest School is not just about being outdoors, it is about learning how to learn, developing resilience and forming meaningful connections with the world around us.
If you would like to find out more about Forest School at Dallington, or see our children learning in action, we warmly invite you to explore the rest of our website or visit us in person.
