At Melbourne Junior School, we have just launched our Forest School.

Each term, different year groups will have a weekly Forest School Session.  In addition, out-door learning sessions are run as interventions to support children to develop social skills, build confidence and thrive.

Sessions are run by Mr. Radburn and Miss Fortin-Tobin.

What is Forest School?

Forest School is a child-centred, long-term learning process in a natural setting which supports children’s holistic development, through play, and exploration.

What are the Benefits of Forest School?

Forest schools offer children regular, hands-on learning experiences outdoors, helping them connect with nature while developing essential life skills. For primary-aged children, this approach supports their curiosity, confidence, and wellbeing through play, exploration, and problem-solving in a natural environment.

Forest School benefits children by:

• Boosts confidence and independence through child-led exploration and decision-making.
• Enhances social skills as children collaborate, communicate, and work in teams.
• Supports physical development with activities that build strength, coordination, and motor skills.
• Encourages creativity and imagination by engaging with open-ended natural materials.
• Improves emotional wellbeing thanks to calming natural surroundings and opportunities for risk-managed challenges.
• Strengthens resilience and problem-solving through tasks that require persistence and adaptability.
• Builds environmental awareness and fosters a lifelong connection with nature.
• Enriches learning across the curriculum by linking outdoor activities to subjects like science, literacy, and maths.