Learning Outside the Classroom
What is Forest School?
Our Learning Outside the Classroom is led by Mrs Scott who is supported by Miss Bennett.
Learning Outside the Classroom is a child-centred learning process, providing learner inspired, hands-on experiences in the natural environment. It’s creative and can increase a child’s confidence as they problem-solve and learn to manage risks.
At St. Gerard’s, we place great importance on the education of the whole child. We have developed a bespoke programme of Outdoor Learning at St Gerard’s which is adult-led with a structured approach, to ensure that learning outside the classroom is enhanced and reinforced. We anticipate this will help to embed key concepts into children’s long-term memory, providing platforms for future learning and concept development. We recognise that learning outdoors is intrinsically motivating for children, helping to support their spiritual development and awareness of the wonder of the world around us.
We recognise, especially after the impact of COVID-19, spending more time outdoors in nature also helps to decrease stress and anxiety, supporting both physical and mental health. All children from Nursery to Year 6 will have the opportunity to visit our ‘Learning Outside the Classroom' to develop skills in the following areas:
- Fire
- Tools
- Arts and Crafts
- Nature ID
- Rope Knots and Shelters
- Map Work and Navigation