Lift East Witchel

What is Forest School?

Forest School is based on the Scandinavian model of Pre-School outdoor education. The Forest School ethos was brought to the UK in the 1990’s after Bridgewater College visited nursery schools in Denmark. They started an outdoor nursery setting at the College which has now become the model for Forest School.

The Forest School Association is the professional body and UK voice for Forest School. Promoting best practice, cohesion and “Quality Forest School for all”.

The Forest School Association has developed six principles for Forest School sessions.

Principle 1: Forest School is a long-term process of frequent and regular sessions in a woodland or natural environment, rather than a one-off visit. Planning, adaptation, observations and reviewing are integral elements of Forest School.

Principle 2: Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural wooded environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.

Principle 3: Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.

Principle 4: Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.

Principle 5: Forest School is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.

Principle 6: Forest School uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for development and learning

Lift East Wichel Forest School

Our Forest School sessions are planned and run by a qualified Forest School Leader, Mrs Webb.

When using tools and fire during sessions, there will be a child to adult ratio of 8:1 for key stage 2 and 5:1 for key stage 1 and EYFS. A minimum of 2 adults should be present for each group regardless of group size.

We may use adult/parent volunteer helpers. Helpers must have a DBS certificate. Do you like working outdoors? Have skills to share? If you would like to volunteer helping at our sessions or know someone who would, please enquire with the school office.

Mrs Webb plans, observes and evaluates every session. Using the observations and conversations with the learners and helpers, Mrs Webb will plan the next session based on each of the learner’s individual needs. Creating a learner-centred environment for holistic development and learning.

Forest School offers creativity, using the natural resources available, such as, sticks, stones, leaves, mud, clay and water. Man -made materials will also be included in art and craft projects.

Playing nature themed games together to build cooperation, trust and a connection to the natural world around them.

Supported risky activities such as den building, tool work and fire craft, help build confidence and self-esteem.

At the heart of every session is the ability to play, connect and discover in an outdoor environment. Play is freely chosen, personally directed and intrinsically motivated. No one will be made to do any of the activities if they choose not to.

Forest School provides a wide range of activities during each session and runs over many weeks giving lots of opportunities for the learners to choose any of the different options available to them.

Being outdoors in any weather helps build resilience. The session will only stop if the wind speed becomes dangerous, there is a thunderstorm or the children’s welfare is at risk.

Forest School Policies and Procedures

Clothing

Forest School is run in all weathers throughout the year. Wearing the correct clothing will help make the learners experience enjoyable whatever the weather.

Winter: Dress for cold and wet weather, wear layers

We are outside for up to 2 hours per session. Add layers to keep warm.

A base layer underneath clothing, vest/thermal or sports base layer.

Short sleeved/Long sleeved top and or jumper. Dark colours work best, we get messy.

Warm long leg trousers/joggers. Leggings/thermal leggings underneath if really cold.

Waterproof dungarees are available for our long-term smaller groups to borrow, you may like to provide your own ‘all-in-one’ suit/dungarees or trousers.

Whole class groups please provide your own waterproofs as we only have a small amount in school.

Thick warm socks/tights or an extra pair of socks or socks over tights. A spare pair of socks available if their socks get wet.

A waterproof coat. Nothing fancy, it will get dirty. Showerproof school coats will not keep the children dry enough over the length of time we are at Forest school.

Gloves, fleece work best, scarf and a warm hat.

Footwear walking boots, wellingtons or snow boots. These will get muddy, plain boots are ideal. Fleece or wool lining would provide an extra insulating layer for wellington boots.

If a child chooses not want to wear any waterproof clothing for any reason, then we will not force them to. We encourage all children at the start of each session to wear the correct outdoor clothing which will help them keep warm and dry. They will be allow to return to school again if they change their mind to collect jumpers/coats.

For anyone who doesn’t wear the outdoor clothing for different reasons, they may need a change of clothing provided to change into after the session.

Summer

Dress light but covered for sun protection

We are outside for 2 hours, cover with light clothing for sun protection.

Lightweight long sleeve top or shirt. Keep arms covered for sun protection and protect from insect or nettle/thistle stings.

Lightweight long leg trousers. Needed for sun protection and protect from insect or nettle/thistle stings.

Wearing shorts, we have long grass and nettles in our forest school area. Nettle stings may occur. Long grass can harbour ticks. Deer have been seen across the fence from the school.

Darker coloured clothing would be advisable in the outdoors. Grass and mud stains are inevitable.

Waterproof trousers are available for our long term smaller groups to borrow, you may like to provide your own ‘all-in-one’ suit or trousers. Whole class groups please provide your own waterproofs as we only have a small amount in school.

Walking boots/shoes or strong trainers must be worn. No loose footwear.

Light waterproof jacket.

Sun hat, sun-screen must be worn

Children without the correct clothing may not enjoy their experience fully. We endeavour to help anyone who forgets to bring items but we have a limited supply.

The children will get wet and muddy in wet weather. Darker coloured clothing that is easy to wash would be ideal.

If children decide not to put on their correct clothing they are still be able to attend the session. The hazards of not wearing the correct clothing will be explained to them but it is their own decision.

Forest School site

Forest School will take place on the school site. The children will be collected from the classroom by the Forest School leader and/or adult helpers. The children will change into their Forest School clothes and shoes before leaving the building.

The Forest School session is held on the school field in a designated area and areas of the school grounds. The school field is enclosed by a secure fence. A site risk assessment is completed before each session.

There is a small pond in the nature area near the school vegetable garden. This is surrounded by a wooden fence and has a locked gate. Wildlife and pond dipping activities may take place here. Risk assessments will be completed before these sessions.

Weather

Forest School is held in any weather except high winds and thunderstorms.

The Forest School leader will check the weather forecast the day before and on the morning on the session. We may need to cancel at the last moment due to weather conditions. Shelters can be put up to help protect from rain and sun in the Forest School areas. The session will be held indoors if the wind is too extreme. The wind is measured using the Beaufort wind force scale.

PPE

The children are provided with work gloves and eye protection when needed for working with tools and fire. Correct footwear must be worn.

Risk assessments completed before running the activity.

Fire Pit Area

The safety of lighting and management of a fire is the responsibility of the Forest School leader.

The fire will be contained to a safe fire area. A risk assessment carried out before the fire is lit and all fire safety equipment must be available.

The seating area around the fire will be placed a safe distance away from the fire pit according to the group abilities. Everyone to walk slowly and carefully around the outside of the log circle.

Pupils will work with a maximum of 4:1 ratio with an adult when building or cooking over the fire. Everyone else in this area needs to remain seated around the log circle.

The fire must be extinguished and disposed of safely at the end of each session.

The fire pit area will be in place at every session, even if we do not light a fire. The fire will only be lit if the Forest School leader feels the children are confident with the rules around having a fire and weather allows.

Tools

The children can learn how to safely use different tools in Forest School. Eg. Palm drills, hammers, screwdrivers, spades and secateurs.

The use of tools will be managed and taught by the Forest School leader and helpers on a 1:1 ratio. The correct use of tools and any dangers will be risk assessed at each session.

The children will only use the tools in a designated tool work area clearly marked.

Everyone will adhere to the tool working code. Working a tool and an arms-length away from another person, to wear PPE provided and carry tools safely.

Sticks, logs and stones

Playing with sticks and stones are all part of Forest School. Children can pick up and carry sticks which are no longer than the length of their arm. Longer and larger branches should be dragged along the ground. Larger logs must be rolled along the ground. These materials should be found on the floor or be provided by Forest School and not pulled from living trees.

Sticks and branches may be cut down using the correct tools and procedures during activities.

Small stones can be collected for activities and play. Any larger stones should be moved with care and safely.

Logs and stones could be a habitat place for small wildlife which might be disturbed. The children are encouraged to think of wildlife before moving them. Always replace a stone or log back carefully.

Rope, cord and string

In Forest School, we will use rope, cord and string for various activities, such as den building. Wool and string will be used in weaving and lashing twigs together. The children will NOT be able to tie another pupil up with any of these products. Rope and cord will be tided away after use to stop any wildlife becoming tangled.

Climbing

Some of the trees at Forest School are young trees so unsuitable for climbing. The branches are thin and could easily snap. There are a few trees which are more mature, there will be more opportunity for climbing on these trees only. Tree climbing will be monitored by an adult and risks talked about before and during climbing.

Other opportunities for climbing at Forest School may be provided such as straw bales, tyres and pallets.

Learners are encouraged to develop their own risk assessments when climbing and building climbing areas.

Food and Drink

A snack may be provided at Forest School. This could be hot chocolate or warm/cold squash. A plain biscuit, toast or fruit. There will be drinking water available at each session. For children with allergies, options will be available, information requested prior to the sessions.

When the fire is alight, we may cook a snack over the fire for or by the children. This could be popcorn, bread products or toasted apples.

Hand washing facilities are available prior to the snack and all food hygiene and allergen rules followed.

Mrs Webb holds a current food hygiene certificate.

Allergies and Intolerances

All allergies and intolerances will be catered for. For any severe allergies (Epi pen) the food/drink provided will be adjusted for the whole group so no cross contamination can take place. We will operate a no nuts policy the same as the school catering team for any food provided. Food provided will be vegetarian. Please inform us if your child is vegan so we can cater for them. Please feel free to ask for any allergen information about products we are using.

If your child requires medication for any allergies, they will need to carry that medication with them down to the Forest School site and the leader will need to be informed.

Tree nuts and seeds may be found naturally in the forest school area.

Toilet

All children will be asked to go to the toilet before getting ready for the session. As we are on the school site KS2 children will be allowed back into the school if they require the toilet during the session. Handwashing is essential after visiting the toilet.

Nursery and KS1 children can be taken back to the building by an adult.

Handwashing

There will be a container of water provided for handwashing only plus soap and paper hand towels. Handwashing before preparing and eating snack will be required by all. Hand sanitiser may also be available.

Rubbish

The site will be checked for rubbish and animal faecal matter by the Forest School leader before the start and end of every session. All rubbish from the session will be placed in a black bag to be carried away at the end of the session. The children are encouraged to pick up their litter at the end of each session. We may have a litter picking day around the field. All safety equipment will be provided.

Visitors to site

All visitors will be required to sign in at the main school office and provide a current DBS certificate. A member of the staff will accompany them at all times. Any visitor will not share information and photos. Relevant risk assessments will be available. All visitors will be the responsibility of the Forest School leader.

For more information on any of the above, please ask to see the associated risk assessments.

Ecological impact and site management

A survey of the site will take place each session. A check on the plants growing, trees and wildlife habitats. The appearance of the ground and impact of footfall in the area.

We aim to enhance the area and support habitats through our site management and maintenance.

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Forest School Behaviour Policy

Forest School values the holistic development of each learner and that all behaviour is a form of communication. Spending time in nature and caring for nature is good for our wellbeing.

Our approach is to build healthy relationships, have core routines and values, help support and guide the learners to address and resolve any issues in a calm and reflective manor. Talking about how our actions influence another person, positively or negatively. Building a communal responsibility and a better personal understanding, without judgment.

Making and following values at forest school together keeps the environment, the group and ourselves safe.

Core Value

We listen, we look and we are kind to… Nature, others and ourselves.

Before, during and after the sessions values are discussed as a group or individuals. Games and activity values are made by everyone participating as each participant has the need to feel safe.

Core routines

Getting ourselves dressed with correct clothing for the session. Walking to the Forest school area. Finding a seat and checking in with each other. Reflection from the last session. Discus agenda for the coming session and safety. Listen and look for signs of nature and the season.

End of session.

Return to the circle when hearing the bell. Discuss the session. What went well, what did not, what could we do differently next time. Gather all equipment to take back, check we are leaving the area safe for nature.

Behaviour

“Beneath every behaviour there is a feeling and beneath every feeling there is a need. When we meet that need rather than focus on the behaviour, we begin to deal with the cause not the symptom.”

Ashleigh Warner.

Behaviour is driven by emotions and emotions are driven by needs, met or unmet.

Forest school works on building self -esteem and self- worth, been non-judgemental and using co-regulation. Providing a sense of safety, identity, belonging and purpose.

Behaviour conflicts

Conflicts are inevitable between humans no matter how old you are. Children learn to deal with these conflicts through PLAY.

At forest school we are there to mediate, guide and support with the learners when conflicts arise. We do this by fully accepting the conflict as it is. We ask what is going on, what happened, without judgment, let the children talk in their own words, taking turns.

We then summarise what we thought the learners said, does that sound right to them? Validating everyone’s feelings, allow all the learners to talk. How would they like to resolve the conflicts so everyone feels safe? We trust them to make that decision.

Opportunities to develop and identify our emotions and needs helps to understand them for ourselves and communicate them to others. Building a culture that nurtures emotional safety to make mistakes and earn back trust.

Dangerous behaviour

Behaviour that endangers or harms the learner or another person during a Forest School session an adult will step in and evaluate the situation. Communicating what we see using concrete observations. Expressing our own feelings of safety about the behaviour, our needs for safety for the group and/or individual.

We will make a request to stop or change the behaviour for every ones safety. Hold space for discussions to support every ones emotions and needs. Listening to their story.

Gather the group to discuss all emotions and feelings and resolve any issues at the end of the session or start of the next session. Feedback to the individual or group on how their actions affected the group/environment.

Exclusion from forest school

This may happen if the needs and safety of the group are affected by an individual’s repetitive unsafe behaviour monitored over a period of time. This decision discussed with all involved.

Child protection and safeguarding policy

At Forest School, we will follow the child protection and safeguarding policy of Lift East Wichel. For information on this policy, please visit the website.

The Forest School staff including volunteers will all hold a current DBS certificate for working with children aged 2 -11 at East Wichel.

At Forest School, we work on a high ratio of staff to pupils due to the nature of the sessions. There will always be a minimum of two staff during sessions; this will include a recognised level 3 qualified Forest School leader.

All staff including volunteers will have read the East Wichel child protection and safeguarding policy and be aware of who the safeguarding lead is and the process of reporting any issues.

Data protection and confidentiality policy

At Forest School, we will follow the data protection and confidentiality policy of East Wichel. For more information, please visit the website.

The Forest School leader will record information taken during Forest School sessions and store securely within the school network. Paper copies are stored securely in school. All paperwork will be disposed of following the schools policy.

Paperwork may be shared with the child’s class teacher, head teacher, SENCO lead and family support worker. Any safeguarding matters to the safeguarding lead, Mrs Paula Phillips, head teacher or deputy lead.

All Forest school staff including volunteers will read and uphold the East Wichel data protection and confidentiality policy.

Inclusion and equal opportunities policy

At Forest School, we will follow the East Wichel policy on inclusion and equal opportunities policy, which can be found on the School website.

FGM policy

At Forest School, we follow the East Wichel FGM policy, which can be found on the school website.

Anti-bullying

At Forest School we follow the East Wichel anti-bullying policy which can be found on the school website.

Statement of Intent

At East Wichel we are committed to providing a warm, caring and safe environment for all our children so that they can learn and play in a relaxed and secure environment. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in our school. We take all incidents of bullying seriously. Bullying hurts. No-one deserves to be a victim of bullying. Everybody has the right to be treated with respect and pupils who are bullying others need to learn different ways of behaving. We acknowledge that bullying does happen from time to time – indeed, it would be unrealistic to claim that it does not. When bullying does occur, everyone should be able to tell and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively in accordance with our anti-bullying policy. We are a TELLING school. This means that anyone who knows that bullying is happening is expected to tell the staff.

Taken from the school anti-bullying policy. November 2021.

Forest School Health and Safety

First aid

The Forest school leader holds a current Forest School 16 hour outdoor First Aid certificate.

Minor injuries treated by a first aider at the forest school site. Cuts, stings, grazes, bumps etc. Recorded in the Forest school accident/ near miss book. Larger cuts, head injuries and burns pupils may return to the school where they are cleaned and monitored fully. Adult helper or another child to walk with child back to the school office. Record all incidents on the schools accident computer records. Inform teacher/parent.

More serious injuries the Forest School leader with be responsible for the casualty until professional medical assistance arrives. A Forest School helper will use the radio to call for assistance, giving details of incident and casualty, location including grid reference and best access point. Adult to meet medical assistance at access point.

All activities will stop and children return to the log circle if a serious event happens. An adult helper will support them. Children will return to school.

The forest school leader will carry the first aid kit, burns kit, accident book, medical incident sheet, radio, location details, torch and whistle in the emergency bag to every Forest School session.

Fire procedure

Before lighting a fire at Forest School check all safety measures followed as written in the fire risk assessment. All fire safety equipment must present before lighting the fire.

There will be no fire in windy, Beautfort scale 7, conditions or hot dry conditions. The direction and speed of the wind assessed every time. The learners are encouraged to be part of this process.

The ground around the fire pit is to be kept clear of debris to prevent the fire spreading. If items catch fire everyone is to walk out of the fire pit area calmly assisted by the helpers. Walk to the edge of the site, leaving tools and equipment safety on the ground. If safe to do so the leader will pour any water on and around the fire to help stop the fire spreading, further. If safe, extinguish fire. Make area around the fire safe. Do not return the group to this area. Observations on the area for the next hour.

If fire is not extinguished call the fire brigade giving details of location. Evacuate group to the KS2 fire assembly point on the playground. A head count will take place to check everyone has accounted for before leaving the area and again at the fire assembly point. Leader to wait at access point for fire brigade.

The fire evacuation practice discussed before all sessions with a fire.

Missing child

Adults to walk with children to the site. The walk is around about a 4 minute walk. The site is a flat open space at the bottom of the school field. Visibility of the whole site is very good. The fence at bottom of the field is climbable for some children.

All children must inform an adult before leaving the forest school area when returning to the school building during sessions.

If a child is absent from the site area, speak to the group and ask them if they have seen the child. Search areas of the school field. Including shed, box unit, copse, and playground, communicate using walkie-talkies.

If not found communicate with main school building for a search there.

Check CCTV.

If the child has not been located within 15 minutes from this call then a phone call to parents/police will take place.

Communicate with radios if the child is located and needs assistance. If medical assistance is needed the leader will also radio the school office for help.

Child leaving site

If a child leaves the school site of their own accord, a member of staff will keep watching them as long as possible and keep communication open using non-judgemental language. Assistance from other adults present.

Encouragement to return, using non- violent communication.

Four step communication, observation, feeling, needs, request.

If the child shows no sign of return, a call to the main school to ask for assistance.

If the child re-enters the school grounds they will be able to re-join the group again. Reflection conversation with child to asses why they left. Support given. Non-judgemental.

Intruder on site

If an intruder is spotted all children will be told to walk up to the playground or back into school with the assistants.

A member of staff will radio the main school to inform them of the intruder and ask for assistance.

Do not approach the intruder. If feeling safe to do so communication with the intruder at a safe distance to assess reason for entry to the school grounds. Keeping radio open with the main school.