My passion for Forest School comes from a lifelong love of nature and a strong belief that children learn best through meaningful hands-on experiences.
As a qualified Early Years practitioner and Forest School Leader, I am dedicated to creating inspiring opportunities that allow children to explore, investigate and develop confidence in their own abilities. I believe that every child deserves the chance to discover the natural world, take supported risks and experience the joy and wonder that outdoor learning can bring.
My Forest School practice is deeply rooted in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), ensuring that children’s interests, wellbeing and development remain at the heart of everything we do. Through carefully planned experiences and child-led exploration, I aim to nurture curiosity, resilience, creativity and a lifelong love of learning.
One of the greatest joys of my role is watching children grow in confidence, develop new skills and create lasting memories through their experiences in nature.
“The best classroom and the richest cupboard is roofed only by the sky.” – Margaret McMillan
At Lee Royd Nursery School, our Forest School journey begins with our youngest explorers building confidence and developing a love for the outdoors.
Every child takes part in weekly outdoor learning sessions in our outdoor classroom, where they begin to develop confidence, trust and a sense of belonging in the natural environment. These sessions help children become comfortable learning outdoors and prepare them for future Forest School experiences.
During outdoor learning, children learn about nature through hands-on experiences. They plant seeds, flowers, fruits and vegetables and enjoy watching them grow and change over time. Through exploring the natural world, children begin to understand lifecycles, seasons, weather and the importance of caring for our environment.
Planting and growing flowers, fruits and vegetables
Caring for plants and wildlife habitats
Exploring seasonal changes
Learning about insects and minibeasts
Investigating natural materials
Developing curiosity through exploration and discovery
As children gain confidence and independence, they are ready to extend their learning through Forest School sessions at the beautiful grounds of Rough Lee Care Home. We are incredibly grateful for the kindness and support shown by the residents and staff, who have welcomed us so warmly into their community.
What is Forest School?
Forest School is a child-centred approach to learning that takes place in a natural environment. It gives children the opportunity to learn through exploration, practical experiences and supported risk-taking while developing a strong connection with nature.
Unlike traditional classroom learning, Forest School allows children the time and freedom to follow their interests, ask questions, solve problems and develop important life skills through real experiences.
Forest School promotes holistic development by supporting children’s social, emotional, physical and cognitive growth. Every session is designed to encourage children to become confident, resilient, curious and independent learners.
Benefits of Forest School
Social and Emotional Development
Builds confidence and self-esteem
Develops resilience and perseverance
Encourages teamwork and cooperation
Strengthens communication skills
Promotes positive mental wellbeing
Physical Development
Improves balance, coordination and strength
Develops fine and gross motor skills
Encourages active and healthy lifestyles
Supports safe risk-taking and problem-solving
Learning and Thinking Skills
Develops creativity and imagination
Encourages critical thinking
Supports language and communication
Inspires curiosity and a love of learning
Builds independence and decision-making skills
Connection to Nature
Develops respect for the natural world
Encourages environmental awareness
Fosters a sense of responsibility and care
Helps children build a lifelong relationship with nature
At Lee Royd Nursery School, we believe Forest School provides children with experiences that cannot always be replicated indoors, helping them become confident, capable and enthusiastic learners.
Suitable Clothing for Outdoor Learning
At Lee Royd Nursery School, we strongly believe that there is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. Outdoor learning takes place throughout the year, allowing children to experience the changing seasons and enjoy all that nature has to offer.
To help your child fully enjoy our outdoor adventures, we kindly ask parents and carers to provide appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.
For wet and cold weather, please provide:
For warm and sunny weather, please provide:
Long sleeves and trousers help protect children from insects, scratches and minor scrapes while exploring outdoors.
By ensuring children are dressed appropriately for the weather, we can help them stay comfortable, safe and fully engaged in all the exciting learning opportunities that outdoor education provides.
“There is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.” This philosophy helps children develop resilience, confidence and a love of being outdoors in all seasons.
