Forest school at Willowbank

At Willowbank we recognise the value of giving children the time and space they need to explore their own thoughts, feelings and interests and what it means to ‘be me’. Our Personal Development curriculum plays a big part in what we do at Forest school. We want every child to be able to:

• Celebrate who they are including their individuality and differences.

• Develop into strong, resilient, strong and independent individuals who are able to keep physically and mentally fit.

• Have fun exploring their own interests and talents in a supportive and exciting environment.

• Learn how to be responsible, active citizens who can contribute to society as well as learning how to have an appreciation of what the ideas of diversity, liberty and respect are and how we can celebrate them.

Forest school provides a range of experiences for the children which allow every  child to be successful. You can find out more information on our Forest school statements.  

Our areas

Our forest school sessions take place onsite in our Forest school garden. We have an amazing outdoor classroom which enables us to go out in any weather and provides a base for story and discussion sessions.

Our pond is situated in forest school but is fenced off. We have newts and dragonfly larvae living in our pond as well as lots of slow worms and a resident hedgehog who enjoy our space.  

The latest addition to our forest school is our new lookout tower. Built in the summer of 2023 by a parent, the lookout has become a firm favourite with our children. It provides a space for bird watching, talking, relaxing and so much more.

At Willowbank we also have a polytunnel and allotment area. During our forest school sessions we plant, grow, harvest and eat lots of vegetables as well as growing flowers. Some of our vegetables go to the school kitchen to be added to the lunch menu or are given to the Willowbranch to cook with, but mostly we love tasting them while picking!

You can keep up with our Forest school adventures on our school Facebook group or if you are in school why not take a look at our floorbooks.