{SECTION_MENU}
Forest School
At Urchfont Primary School, we are incredibly fortunate to have Oakfrith Woods just a short walk from our school grounds. This beautiful natural environment provides an abundance of space, wildlife, seasonal change and opportunity — the perfect outdoor classroom in which our children can explore, discover and grow.
Throughout the year, every class takes part in a series of Forest School sessions. These carefully planned experiences allow children to learn beyond the four walls of the classroom, developing practical skills, resilience and confidence in a natural setting.
In Forest School, children might build shelters, learn to use tools safely, cook outdoors, identify plants and wildlife, work collaboratively on challenges, or simply pause to observe the world around them. The sessions encourage curiosity, problem-solving and independence, while nurturing respect for nature and for one another.
We also make full use of our own school grounds. Our developing garden area gives children the opportunity to plant flowers and grow crops, learning first-hand about seasons, sustainability and where food comes from. Through digging, sowing, nurturing and harvesting, pupils gain patience, responsibility and a deep sense of achievement as they watch their efforts flourish over time.
Our commitment to outdoor learning extends further through our two residential visits, where children take part in bushcraft-style activities and team challenges. These experiences provide valuable opportunities to step outside comfort zones, build resilience, strengthen friendships and develop independence. For many children, these moments become some of their most treasured primary school memories.
Forest School supports the development of many essential life skills. Children learn to assess risk, persevere when tasks feel challenging, communicate effectively as part of a team and reflect thoughtfully on their own learning. The woodland environment naturally fosters creativity, imagination and wellbeing, offering space to think, explore and breathe.
Above all, Forest School embodies our school values of Respect, Compassion, Perseverance, Joy, Wisdom and Courage. In the calm and beauty of the outdoors, children discover not only the natural world — but also their own strengths.