Overview of Educational Content – Forest School Sessions
Forest Freedom delivers structured outdoor learning sessions to schools and nurseries during the school day. Sessions are led by a qualified Forest School practitioner and are designed to support children’s learning and development through planned, hands-on experiences in a natural environment.
Areas of Learning Covered
Sessions support key areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stage 1 curriculum, including:
Understanding the World & Science
– Seasonal change (e.g. identifying signs of spring, autumn, winter)
– Habitats and ecosystems
– Plants, trees and wildlife
– Life cycles and living things
– Caring for the natural environment
Communication and Language
– Learning new vocabulary linked to nature and the environment
– Group discussion and questioning
– Story-based learning (e.g. linking activities to books such as Superworm and The Gruffalo)
Mathematics (early concepts)
– Counting, sorting and comparing natural materials
– Problem-solving activities (e.g. trails, challenges, measuring)
Physical Development
– Fine motor skills (e.g. threading, tying, tool use)
– Gross motor skills (e.g. climbing, balancing, coordination)
– Developing confidence in movement outdoors
Expressive Arts and Design
– Creating using natural materials (e.g. leaf art, woodland crafts)
– Imaginative play linked to learning themes
Structure of Sessions
Sessions are structured and typically include:
– Introduction to the topic or learning focus
– Guided exploration and practical activities
– Opportunities for observation, questioning and discussion
– Reflection on what has been learned
Activities are planned to support learning outcomes and build knowledge over time.
Educational Approach
While sessions encourage exploration and engagement with the natural environment, they are supported by intentional teaching and guided learning. Children are introduced to key concepts and supported to develop understanding through structured activities.
Summary
Forest Freedom provides outdoor educational sessions that support children’s learning and development in line with recognised educational frameworks. These sessions form part of the educational experience of the children attending schools and nurseries.
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Please see our timetable for when these sessions run
