At Holdbrook, we work with Be Free Forest School, a local company, to provide engaging and meaningful outdoor learning experiences for our children. Forest School offers children the opportunity to:

• Develop social skills and communication.

• Develop knowledge and understanding of the natural world.

• Build confidence and motivation.

• Develop physical skills.

Children in each year group (1-5) attend two blocks of five Forest School sessions in contrasting seasons. Reception children begin their Forest School adventure in the summer term. Forest School is now a well-established part of the Holdbrook week and children really look forward to their sessions. Outdoor learning takes place come rain or shine, with children enjoying the differing conditions. As sessions progress, the children become more aware of their environment – nature and the changing seasons fascinate them. Teamwork and supportive risk-taking are common features of learning and have spread to cooperation becoming more apparent in other curriculum areas.

The timetable below details when each year group can expect to experience Forest School.