Our Forest School
We are very fortunate to have a fantastic purpose built Forest School on our school site. The children learn and develop an array of skills in a safe and enriching area.
Aims of Forest School Education
At Morton we believe that young people should be given the opportunity to experience the world beyond the classroom, so we are excited to introduce the forest school ethos into our school.
We aim to use the natural outdoor environment to offer the children an insight into the holistic Forest School approach. We aim to:
- Allow children to develop their independence.
- Build self-esteem and self-confidence.
- Initiate learning for themselves.
- Manage and control risks independently.
- Develop social and communication skills.
- Promote learning through exploration and discovery.
What is Forest School Education?
The ethos and purpose of Forest School is to encourage and inspire individuals through positive outdoor experiences. It has developed from the Scandinavian education system, where it was found to have a positive impact on children's social and practical skills. Forest School is a long term programme delivered by a trained practitioner within a natural, outdoor environment.
Where and when does it happen?
Forest School sessions will take place within our school grounds on the Forest School site located at the top of the school. Occasionally the children will also use the playing field surrounding the school; they will explore the hedgerows, looking for natural resources, making them aware of their surroundings, building their knowledge of the environment and local eco systems.
Our site has a fire pit area, hedgehog hotel, mini beast area; a range of broad leafed trees; willow tunnel; water feature that can be used for play and activities; bog area; meadow patch, seating areas and mud kitchen area. We are also fortunate to have access to an outdoor classroom, which houses our learning resources, den building equipment, cookery tools, woodcraft tools, first aid kits and other outdoor equipment.