Forest Schools
The Forest Schools programme at Barfield School is our own interpretation of the original concept from Scandinavia that recognises the importance of an ‘outdoor’ approach to play and learning. There is no doubt of the significant, positive impact of outdoor learning on the development of children, including enhanced social capability, concentration and co-ordination.
The principle reasons include the great range of opportunities present for play in nature, and that the children tend to play and concentrate for longer at a time. They also can develop greater consideration towards each other through group tasks that build social skills from an early age. Confidence builds through physical activity and achievement. Studies have even shown that Forest School children can have 25% fewer sick days than the city children!
It is also quite fun!
The sessions held at Barfield are planned with our Forest Schools trained Staff and the Class Teachers, to create learning opportunities relevant to their class work outside. Children starting Forest Schools are introduced to the school grounds, in particular, our woods, establishing physical and behavioral boundaries. Safety procedures and hygiene all become part of the learning. A cup of hot chocolate or even marshmallow around the fire round off a super session of exciting play and learning in an environment they feel comfortable and happy with.