What is Forest School?

Forest School takes place in an outdoor environment and follows a learner-led approach to education. It offers opportunities for holistic growth through regular, long-term sessions that encourage play, exploration, and supported risk-taking.

Learners engage in hands-on opportunities and experiences provided by the forest school leader such as building, problem-solving, and exploring the great outdoors. The approach emphasises learner-led learning, where individuals are encouraged to take the lead in their own learning experiences through exploration and play, fostering a deep connection with nature. It also aims to develop essential life skills, such as resilience, independence, and teamwork, all within a fun, safe, and supportive environment.

 

What clothing should be worn to Forest School sessions?

Please refer to the Kit List section of our website for detailed clothing recommendations.

 

How do you track my child’s progress in Forest School sessions?

The Full SET Forest School Leader does not deliver sessions with set ‘learning objectives.’ Each session is learner-focused and led, with the emphasis on providing opportunities and experiences. It is up to the learners to choose which activities they would like to engage in, allowing for a more individualised learning experience that reflects their interests and needs. Progress is not tracked in a traditional sense, but we observe and support each learner’s growth through their choices, interactions, and development during sessions.

 

Is Forest School safe for my child?

Yes, safety is our priority. Our experienced Forest School leaders are trained to manage risks and ensure that all opportunities and experiences available are safe for the learner’s, staff and anyone attending our sessions. We create a supportive environment where learners are encouraged to take calculated risks in a controlled, safe space.

 

How often do Forest School sessions take place?

Sessions typically occur on a regular, long-term basis. The frequency may vary depending on the specific program or arrangement, but regular attendance allows learners to build skills and deepen their connection with nature over time.

 

Can I join my child at Forest School sessions?

While we encourage independence and learner-led learning, parents are welcome to attend special events or observe sessions by prior arrangement. We aim to create a space where learners feel empowered to explore and learn independently.

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What is the Forest School Holiday Club Day?

It is an unforgettable day of outdoor adventure and learning from 9am until 3pm on selected dates throughout the school holidays. We do natural crafts, tool use, fire lighting, campfire cooking, group games and much more! Our programme is designed for 5-11-year-olds.

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Why can I only book a single day at the Holiday Club and not the entire week?

We are currently expanding and recruiting new staff to ensure we meet strict adult-to-child ratios. As we grow, we hope to offer more flexible booking options in the future.

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My child has SEND or an additional requirement. Can they attend the After-School Clubs and Holiday Clubs?

We strive to be inclusive and provide a welcoming environment for every child. While we are a small business and are unable to offer 1:1 support, you are more than welcome to arrange for someone to attend alongside your child if this additional support is needed.

If you plan to do this, please contact Maddi Burgess at thefullsetforestschoolleader@gmail.com. Additionally, feel free to reach out if there is anything you would like us to be aware of regarding your child’s needs.

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What if there is an emergency with my child while they are at the After-School Club or Holiday Club?

In case of emergencies, we have strict systems in place to ensure you are contacted immediately. Both the Forest School Leader and any other staff working in the session will have your contact details.

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How do you ensure the authorised person is picking up my child?

We ask you to provide a pick up password to ensure the safety of your child. If you have any concerns about someone picking up your child, please speak directly with Maddi Burgess.

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How can I contact the After-School Club in an emergency or to inform you of anything?

If there is no answer on our mobile 07519 513582 please contact the school office directly, and they will relay the information to us.​​

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How do I contact the Holiday Club during the day if I have an emergency or need to inform you or anything?

You can reach the Holiday Club directly on 07519 513582. We will respond as soon as possible.

Please note the school office is closed during school holidays.

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What if it rains or the weather is dangerous?

We take weather conditions seriously and follow forecasts from the BBC Weather & Met Office. If the weather is deemed unsafe (e.g., thunder, lighting, or high winds), the session will be cancelled, and we will notify you as soon as possible. If it rains, the shelter or nearby trees come in handy, providing us the option to set up tarpaulin for cover.

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I am a parent, teacher, teaching assistant, or homeschool parent looking for child-led learning resources, can you recommend some ideas?

Whether you are working in a school or supporting your child’s learning at home, there are many creative and effective ways to incorporate educational resources into an environment that captures a child’s interests. If you're looking for a fresh way to engage the child with their learning and draw on their creativity and interests, we highly recommend checking out our friends’ website. They offer a fabulous selection of books filled with inspiring ideas that have been tried and tested both in our sessions and with our founders’ own children. Click here to visit our friends’ at The Way You Learn Ltd to start any child’s learning adventure.