• What we do
- Forest School for community groups, pre-school, primary and secondary schools
- Holiday and half term woodland activity sessions
- Woodland days – for community groups or schools (these could be curriculum focused).
- Family days
- Birthday parties
• Where we work
- In the stunning grounds of Hestmonceux Castle nestled amongst 300 acres of ancient woodland.
- Wheelchair accessibl
e
- Plentiful parking
- Toilet facilities
- Chestnut tea rooms open between April-October
• Who we are:
Both of us are:
• Qualified level 3 Forest School leaders.
• Qualified for First Aid outdoors.
• Qualified teachers – Penny (PGCE- secondary), Helen – (PGCE-primary).
• Fully insured for all ages and Forest School activities
• Between us we have experience of setting up and implementing four Forest Schools in a range of settings - primary, secondary and an after school club.
• Penny has worked for Sussex Wildlife Trust for the past 6 years and has experience of woodland curriculum days across all key stages, including A level. Forest School is an inspirational process that offers all learners regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self esteem through hands-on learning experiences in a woodland environment. It aims to promote holistic development of ALL those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners. Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and themselves. You will have the opportunity to revisit, engage and foster a love for the wonderful ancient woodland at Herstmonceux over a period of six or more sessions. What happens at Forest School? There are many different and exciting activities to explore at Forest School and here are just a few:
• Campfire building, lighting and management
• Campfire cooking
• Tool work
• Using greenwood to make wooden objects
• Den and shelter building
• Foraging
• Nature games for self esteem and team building
• Nature education –respecting the natural environment
• Rope swings and balance ropes
• Knot tying
• Seasonal projects and activities
• Child led play, learning and adventuring
Benefits of Forest School
• Increased social and emotional well-being
• Problem solving skills
• Develops self confidence
• Raises self-esteem
• Increased communication skills and teamwork
• Safe risk-taking opportunities, develops the ability to manage risk for oneself
• Greater understanding, awareness and respect of the natural world
• Increased concentration and motivation
What should I bring? All the activities take place outside in the beautiful woodlands, whatever the weather. For this reason please bring along the following- depending on the season and general weather.
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Wellington boots or hiking boots
• Warm hat or sun hat
• Long trousers
• Warm, comfortable clothing which you are happy to get dirty
• If you would like to find make a booking or to find out more about any of the activities, please get in touch.
