6 September 2024

Today was our first Forest School session of the new academic year. Some pupils participated in Forest School last year, but for our new P1s, this was their first experience. We checked the site prior to the session and removed some rubbish that had blown over the hedge in the summer months. We began the session by discussing appropriate clothing and footwear and ensured all children were wearing wellies. As it was a beautiful sunny day, puddle suits were not required for this first session. We sang our Forest School song as we walked in line to our site. We then looked at the boundary flags and discussed the names of each animal. Following this we explained their importance and the need to stay within the boundary. We involved the children in setting them out and explained the importance of carrying them safely (straight up and down). Our P2 & 3 children were able to explain the ‘whistle game’ to our new P1s and everyone had fun standing like a tree or returning to the adult. They enjoyed listening out for the two different whistle tones and working out which teacher had blown their whistle. As it was our first session, we provided lots of time to explore the site and discussed any noticeable changes in the environment. The children were excited to spot all the buttercups, daisies and clover. They also commented on how high the grass had grown and compared walking through it to ‘Going on a Bear Hunt’. They remembered where our stick pile was kept and most children then spent time digging in the mud and searching for worms. At the end of our session we gathered together at our log circle and sat down. The children were asked to show thumbs up, down or in the middle to indicate their enjoyment of the session. One child made a Spiderman gesture and told us that it meant ‘awesome’ because he loves Forest Schools! We finished off by ensuring we had left no trace and then collected in the boundary flags and safely returned to school. A fantastic session to start the school year!