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What to expect at forest school

Forest School sessions vary depending on many things, in particular the season and the children themselves, but each session is held outdoors, is child-led and is facilitated by a qualified Forest School leader. 

Building with loose parts

Making a fire and cooking on an open flame

Bushcraft skills, including using tools

Nature craft

Imaginative play 

Nature connection activities and games

Tree climbing and den building

Stories and creativity

As a bilingual Forest School we are also able to offer sessions in the Welsh langauge.

Fel Ysgol Goedwig ddwyieithog rydym hefyd yn cynnig sesiynau yn Gymraeg.

SAFETY AND WELFARE ESSENTIALS

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The Forest School site at Hafan y Coed is on private land. It is enclosed and therefore safe for children to roam explore with minimal supervision. The sense of freedom this gives the children is a fantastic element of Forest School. Of course, being in a natural environment inherently presents some risks but a thorough risk assessment and site check is done for each session. Activities which pose a higher level of risk such as using tools or fire are done under close supervision only.

 

All staff and volunteers are DBS checked and have appropriate Safeguarding Training. The Forest School Leader has a Level 3 award in Outdoor First Aid and Level 2 certificate in Food Hygiene Standards.

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safety
toilets

There is a 'camping' style toilet on site and hand washing facilities, however it would be a good idea for children to go to the toilet before coming to a session.

what to wear

As Forest School runs year-round it is vital that children are appropriately dressed. Layers are an excellent way to ensure that children can modify their clothing according to the temperature and their activity level. Always add one more layer than you think is needed – it can always be taken off! There is always a high risk of mud at Forest School so children should come dressed with this in mind. Essential clothing for Forest School are:

  • Long trousers and sleeves – to protect against scratches, nettle stings and insect bites

  • A hat – for warmth in the colder seasons and for sun protection in summer

  • A waterproof coat (preferably with a hood). This should be thick and warm during winter

  • Sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots with warm socks (two pairs if necessary)

Mittens/gloves in cold weather (thermal and waterproof – knitted gloves will get damp and cold)

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