St Paul’s Pre-School Forest School Ethos and Aims
At St Paul’s Pre-School, our Forest School session ethos is rooted in the belief that all children are capable, competent learners who thrive when given the freedom to explore, take supported risks, and connect deeply with the natural world. Our sessions are designed to nurture curiosity, resilience, and respect, encouraging children to develop a strong sense of self and belonging through hands-on, child-led learning experiences in nature.
Our Ethos
The ethos of Forest School sessions at St Paul’s Pre-School is centered on holistic child development. We provide a safe and inspiring outdoor environment where children can grow in confidence, independence, and self-esteem. Through regular access to natural spaces, children learn to appreciate the beauty and value of the environment, develop social and emotional skills, and gain a sense of responsibility for themselves and others
Our Aims
Our aims are to:
- Encourage a lifelong love of learning and exploration through play and discovery.
- Support the development of resilience, self-regulation, and confidence.
- Promote teamwork, communication, and respect for others.
- Foster a connection with nature and an understanding of sustainability.
- Provide inclusive opportunities for all children, regardless of background or ability.
- Enhance physical, emotional, and social wellbeing through active outdoor engagement.
The Forest School Association (FSA) Principles
St Paul’s Pre-School Forest School operates in alignment with the six core principles set out by the Forest School Association (FSA), the professional body for Forest School in the UK:
- Forest School is a long-term process of regular sessions, rather than one-off visits. It takes place in a natural environment to support repeated experiences and deep learning.
- Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.
- Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all involved, fostering resilience, confidence, independence, and creativity.
- Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
- Forest School is run by qualified practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.
- Forest School uses a learner-centred pedagogical approach that is responsive to the needs and interests of each individual.
By embracing these principles, St Paul’s Pre-School aims to create a nurturing environment where every child can flourish, developing the skills, confidence, and respect that will support their lifelong learning journey both inside and outside the classroom.
Speak to our team to find out more about how St Paul’s Preschool supports children through play, care and early learning.