“Encouraging future generations to connect with the natural world around them.

Fostering a curiosity, care and sense of adventure to ignite a passion for learning.”

Forest School at Abel Smith

Forest School is a unique and inspiring approach to outdoor learning that supports children in becoming confident, resilient, and independent learners. Through hands-on exploration and meaningful play in nature, children develop skills that enrich their learning far beyond the classroom. At Abel Smith, Forest School is expertly planned and delivered by Gemma Emms, our trained Forest School Leader, ensuring high-quality, engaging, and safe experiences for every child from Nursery to Year 6.

Early Years and KS1 – Exploring Our On-Site Woodland

Nursery to KS1 pupils take part in Forest School every Thursday, following a three-week cycle. This gives each class three sessions per term.

Our on-site woodland area provides a rich and exciting environment, featuring:

• The Zen Den, a bespoke outdoor shelter with a fire pit

• A digging pit for building physical skills

• Hammocks, rope swings, and rope bridges

• A loose-parts area for imaginative building and problem-solving

• Weekly changing activities including mud painting, natural art, chalk drawing, den building, and seasonal crafts

Through this child-led exploration, children develop confidence, communication skills, creativity, and a deep connection with the natural environment.

KS2 – Taking Adventure to the Next Level

As children move into KS2, Forest School becomes even more immersive. Pupils attend sessions every Friday, also on a three-week cycle, giving each class nine full days per year (over 55 hours) at our exclusive off-site woodland at Woodhall Park.

This exceptional natural space allows children to experience authentic outdoor learning, including:

• Fire lighting and outdoor cooking

• Safe use of axes, saws, and other tools

• Building dens, bridges, and shelters

• Exploring wildlife, identifying tracks, and studying animal habitats

• Discovering woodland species and developing real ecological understanding

These full-day sessions give pupils the time and freedom to develop independence, resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in a truly inspiring environment.

Why Forest School Matters

Across all year groups, Forest School provides powerful benefits, helping children to:

• Build self-confidence and self-esteem

• Develop resilience and perseverance

• Strengthen teamwork and social skills

• Gain a lifelong connection to nature

• Enhance problem-solving and creative thinking

• Support emotional wellbeing through calm, grounded outdoor experiences

At Abel Smith, Forest School is a valued and distinctive part of our curriculum—giving every child the opportunity to explore, discover, and thrive in the natural world.