Forest School – Curriculum Intent

At Market Field School, Forest School forms an important part of our wider curriculum and personal development offer. Our intent is to provide pupils with high-quality outdoor learning experiences that promote resilience, independence, curiosity and emotional wellbeing, enabling all pupils to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes they need to flourish both academically and personally.

Forest School is grounded in the principles of inclusivity, experiential learning and respect for the natural world. It supports pupils to become confident learners who can manage risks, work collaboratively and reflect on their experiences.

Forest School – Curriculum Implementation

Forest School sessions take place at Thorrington Scout Centre, a carefully risk‑assessed woodland environment that allows pupils to engage in purposeful, structured outdoor learning beyond the classroom.

Sessions are:

• Regular and progressive, enabling skills and confidence to develop over time
• Led by trained staff, ensuring consistency, safety and high expectations
• Planned to meet individual needs, including those of pupils with SEND
• Flexible and responsive, allowing pupils’ interests and strengths to shape learning experiences

Pupils engage in a range of activities designed to develop:

• Communication and teamwork
• Problem-solving and perseverance
• Physical coordination and spatial awareness
• Emotional regulation and self-confidence

Play, exploration and choice are key elements of our approach, supporting pupils to take appropriate, well‑managed risks while learning how to assess hazards and make safe decisions.

Inclusion, Behaviour and Attitudes

Forest School provides a supportive environment where pupils are encouraged to:

• Demonstrate positive behaviour for learning
• Develop self-regulation and resilience
• Build respectful relationships with peers and adults
• Take increasing responsibility for themselves and others

The outdoor setting is particularly beneficial for pupils who may find classroom‑based learning more challenging. It promotes engagement, reduces anxiety and supports pupils to experience success in different ways.

Expectations for behaviour, safety and cooperation are consistently reinforced, contributing to pupils’ understanding of boundaries and routines.

Safeguarding and Risk Management

Safeguarding is a priority within all Forest School provision. Sessions are supported by:

• Robust risk assessments reviewed regularly
• Clear routines and safety expectations
• Close supervision and strong staff‑pupil relationships
• Teaching pupils how to recognise and manage risk safely

Children are supported to develop awareness of their own safety and that of others, contributing positively to their understanding of personal responsibility.

Forest School – Impact on Pupils

The impact of Forest School at Market Field School is evident in pupils’:

• Increased confidence and independence
• Improved social and communication skills
• Greater resilience and perseverance when faced with challenges
• Enhanced emotional wellbeing and self-esteem

Pupils develop skills that support their wider learning, including cooperation, problem-solving and sustained engagement. These outcomes contribute positively to pupils’ readiness for learning and life beyond school.

Personal Development and School Values

Forest School strongly supports our commitment to pupils’ personal development. It enables children to:

• Show respect for themselves, others and the environment
• Build positive friendships and teamwork skills
• Develop a sense of achievement and pride in their learning

The programme reflects Market Field School’s values and supports pupils to become thoughtful, confident and capable individuals.

How Does Forest School Benefit My Child?

Forest School gives children the opportunity to learn and grow in ways that are sometimes difficult to achieve in a classroom setting. Through regular outdoor learning at Thorrington Scout Centre, children develop skills that support their academic learning, behaviour, confidence and wellbeing.

Emotional Wellbeing and Confidence

Forest School helps children to:

• Build confidence by trying new activities and succeeding at their own pace
• Develop resilience and perseverance when faced with challenge
• Regulate emotions in a calm, natural environment

Many children find the outdoor setting reduces anxiety and helps them feel more settled, ready and motivated to learn back in school.

Social Skills and Friendships

During Forest School sessions, children:

• Learn to work cooperatively with others
• Develop communication and teamwork skills
• Build positive relationships through shared experiences

This supports children to develop respect, empathy and a strong sense of belonging.

Independence and Life Skills

Forest School encourages children to:

• Make choices and take responsibility for their actions
• Manage risks safely and sensibly
• Develop problem-solving and decision-making skills

These experiences help children grow in independence and self‑belief, supporting them both in school and beyond.

Engagement and Love of Learning

Learning outdoors allows children to:

• Be active, curious and engaged
• Learn through hands-on experiences
• Develop creativity and imagination

Forest School helps children see learning as enjoyable and meaningful, which supports positive attitudes to learning across the wider curriculum.

Supporting All Children

Forest School is inclusive and benefits all pupils, including those with additional needs. Activities are adapted to ensure every child can experience success, helping to raise self-esteem and participation.