FAQ’S
What is Forest School?
Mud pies, tools, storytelling, treasure hunting, painting, clay, campfire cookery, imagination, communication, friendship building, child-led discovery, laughter, self-regulating, physical, nature loving, individual...PLAY!
Forest School is an inspirational process, that offers all learners regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self esteem through learning experiences in a woodland or natural environment with trees.
The core philosophy of Forest School is based on the belief that children benefit from being immersed in nature and engaging in hands-on experiences in the natural world. It emphasizes holistic development, promoting the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth of children.
In a high quality Forest School program, children are given the freedom to explore and play in the outdoor setting, guided by trained Forest School practitioners. They engage in experinces such as building shelters, climbing trees, identifying plants and animals, making crafts from natural materials, and learning practical skills like fire building or tool usage (under appropriate supervision and safety measures). The experiences we deliver ensure the child’s interests are at the centre, allowing children to follow their interests and learn through their own discoveries and experiences alongside our unique curriculum offer.
*September 2024 waiting list now open*
We're excited to announce that our waiting list for September 2024 is now open! With limited spaces available, this is your opportunity to secure a spot for your child in our vibrant educational community.
What are the session times & FEES?
We currently offer:
Sessional day care from 9am - 4pm.
Full day care from 8am - 5.30pm. This includes breakfast and an end of day tea.
(We remain open for 51 weeks of the year with a Christmas break).
FROM What aGE CAN CHILDREN ATTEND?
We currently accept children from 2 years +.
WILL MY CHILD HAVE A KEY PERSON?
A key person at a Forest School Nursery plays a pivotal role in your child’s overall learning experience. Firstly, the key person acts as a consistent and reliable point of contact for both the child and their parents, fostering a strong sense of security and trust. They develop a deep understanding of each child's unique needs, strengths, and interests, tailoring activities and guidance accordingly. By building nurturing relationships, the key person helps children develop their social and emotional skills, promoting a sense of belonging and self-confidence. Additionally, they encourage exploration, independence, and problem-solving abilities through the rich natural environment of the Forest School. The key person's expertise and knowledge of child development further enable them to facilitate holistic learning experiences that encompass nature appreciation, environmental stewardship, and physical well-being.
How do children settle-in to a new nursery routine?
We prioritise smooth transitions for your child. During initial visits, parents accompany their child, exploring our space and routines together and with the help of your child’s key person. At your next visit, children are dropped off with their key person and engage in one-hour sessions, fostering familiarity and comfort. Our nurturing staff ensures a supportive environment for seamless integration and we can be adaptable and flexible to each individual needs of the child during this process.
What happens in rainy weather?
PLAY! Our Forest School leaders are equipped to facilitate engaging activities even on rainy days. We make use of outdoor shelters, a bell tent, and even a cosy log fire to keep spirits high during changes in the seasons. In the event of extreme conditions like high winds or storms, we seamlessly transition to indoor play within our spacious classroom. Prioritising safety, we conduct thorough risk assessments tailored to each child, ensuring a blend of indoor and outdoor activities that accommodate daily weather fluctuations, ensuring your child's comfort and enjoyment throughout their playtime.
Where do children sleep?
When working outside we have access to our beautiful 7m bell tent and hammocks for tree sleepers! Our indoor classroom space also offers a cosy and calm space for children to sleep in the day or simply a space to snuggle up with a book!
Do you have toilet & nappy facilities?
As we are lucky enough to have an indoor and outdoor space we can provide toilet and nappy changing facilities in both areas. We use fully functional compost loos that look just the same as a standard toilet but are waterless and great for the environment. We have accessible toilet spaces if required and also nappy change units for those not yet ready for potty training!
Does my child need waterproofs?
As part of your registration fee, children will be provided with a set of outdoor waterproofs (jacket and trousers) to use at Forest School. Parents/carers are also given a recommended kit list for a busy day outdoors so that your little explorer will always feel comfortable and ready to learn.
Do you provide healthy food?
Children attending wraparound care will eat inside in our dedicated space. At lunchtimes we picnic together in the woods (or eat indoors during the winter). Throughout the day children have access to their own water bottles and we also provide a healthy snack option in the morning and afternoon. This may be fresh food option or a cooked campfire snack. We are also able to cater for children with food allergies. We ask that children bring their own packed lunches for the day when attending.
Will my child be ready for school if they attend a Forest School Nursery?
We teach children where to look, not what to see. Children are naturally inquisitive learners. As your child's journey at Growild Kindergarten comes to an end, they will seamlessly transition into formal schooling, armed with a solid foundation for success. Forest school prepares them for the classroom by nurturing their natural curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. They enter school with confidence, resilience, and a genuine enthusiasm for learning that sets them apart.
Do you teach children about THE environment?
As our learning takes place outdoors there are ample opportunities to discuss the world around us. From digging up worms and slugs to cloud watching in a hammock. The outdoor woodland changes every day and children will learn to notice the little things in this environment, making connections and developing a love of the great outdoors!
Can parents be involved?
We actively encourage parent/carers to get involved and provide access to the online 'Famly' app for weekly updates plus scheduled days in the calendar for family Forest School experiences; annual tree planting, parent yoga sessions, campfire coffee mornings, storytime and more…
Is it safe to use tools & fire?
Our group green guidelines teach children that a fire can make us warm and provide hot food but also opens up healthy discussions about safety, self-awareness and communication with others. We learn together through play, storytelling, song and positive adult role-modelling to build a community of safe and happy learners. A high level of adult:child ratios fully supports risky play in a safe environment.
Is the woodland site secure?
We have access to 2.2 acres of private and secure woodland. The site is looked after by the GroWild team and we carry out daily checks of the site. We look after our trees with yearly surveys from independent arboriculturists and actively work to create new habitats that benefit this urban woodland environment.
Want to know more?
You are able to reserve a place for your child in advance of when you want them to start. To register your interest in a place please enquire and one of our helpful team will be in touch.
