Forest School

The Purpose of Studying Forest Schools

At SSMJ we recognise Forest School is a unique method of Outdoor Education that allows children to develop confidence, independence, self-esteem and awareness and knowledge of the natural environment. This links closely with our Catholic ethos approach and one of the encyclical letters from Pope Francis (2015) ‘Laudato Si’’ This fully supports our Mission Statement:

Following the example of Jesus, together we learn, love and respect one another to be the best we can be.

This is achieved by setting small achievable tasks. The child is never put in a position where he/she will fail so success is attained. It is a child centred, and child led programme that provides the opportunity for the children to use their personal learning style to complete their chosen tasks

Aims:

In line with the national curriculum 2014 and the Early Years Statutory Framework 2021, the curriculum at SSMJ aims to ensure that all pupils:

·To provide children with experiences that encourages an appreciation, awareness and knowledge of the natural environment.

·To provide children with a sense of duty and responsibility to take care of the local environment, God’s Creation.

· To learn to respect and care for their own local environment.

·To abide by rules and set standards of behaviour, to work cooperatively in groups and to respect each other.

·Develop children’s self-esteem and self-confidence through the setting of small achievable tasks.

·To provide children with that sense of learning can take place anywhere not just in a classroom.

·To provide opportunities to use technology outside whilst learning about how to keep safe.

September 2023