Clare’s Little Bears introduced Forest school experiences in 2017, recognising the huge value that outdoor learning brings to young children. When access to an external forest setting came to an end, we felt that something very important was missing from our provision. In response, we made the decision to develop our own Forest School, ensuring that children at Clare’s Little Bears could continue to benefit from regular, high-quality outdoor learning.

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Our Forest school is based at Hampson Park, just a short distance from the main preschool. It is a fully outdoor Forest school that operates in all weather conditions, allowing children to experience the natural environment throughout the seasons. In extreme weather, an indoor space is available to ensure children remain safe and comfortable while still maintaining continuity of learning.

From the age of two, children take part in a wide range of hands-on, nature-based activities. These include mini-beast hunts, tree climbing, den building, natural art, risky play, and fire building, lighting, and cooking experiences. As children grow in confidence and reach the age of three, they are gradually introduced to the safe use of tools. This supports the development of practical life skills, problem solving, and independence, while encouraging children to think carefully about safety and responsibility.

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Forest School places a strong emphasis on child-led learning. Children are encouraged to explore, take appropriate risks, make choices, and learn from their experiences in a supportive and nurturing environment. This approach helps to build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of self, while allowing children to develop at their own pace.

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The benefits of Forest School are wide-ranging. Regular outdoor learning supports physical development, coordination, and fine and gross motor skills. It also helps children develop a deep respect for the natural world, empathy for others, teamwork skills, and effective communication. Being outdoors has a positive impact on wellbeing, supporting emotional regulation, self-esteem, and a sense of achievement. Children learn how to assess and manage risks safely, which builds confidence and independence that carries through into other areas of learning and life.

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We supports the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, embedding learning outcomes naturally through play and exploration. By combining fresh air, movement, and meaningful experiences in a safe and secure outdoor environment, we provide children with rich opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive.