Vision and Values
Ethos
The forest school concept is not new, in fact it was first developed over fifty years ago in Germany and Scandinavia where they are now commonplace. Taking learning outdoors gives children the opportunity to learn in an ever changing environment where the colours, temperature, textures, sounds and wildlife within their outdoor classroom change daily, creating a more sensory and stimulating learning experience and offering great challenge.
At Staghills Nursery School, we believe that playing outside for prolonged periods allows children more freedom to explore and gain a practical understanding of the world around them, allowing them to reconnect with nature. Our children are able to investigate curriculum areas like literacy, numeracy and the world through real world examples and first hand experience. However, and perhaps more importantly, outdoor play also significantly enhances the development of their emotional intelligence e.g. self-confidence, resilience, problem solving,team work and leadership…skills that are essential to the well rounded education that is vital for life beyond the classroom.
Everyday life always involves a degree of risk and we feel that it is important that children learn how to cope with this. Young children who are sheltered from risk and challenge will not be able to make judgements about their own capabilities and are likely to find their play areas uninteresting and use them in inappropriate ways, which can become dangerous. Therefore we encourage and support our children to engage in managed risk and challenge, such as learning how to negotiate natural hazards (e.g. ice, tree roots, slippery slopes) and learning how to use tools and equipment safely and purposefully. The staff team at Staghills is committed to promoting a ‘have a go’ attitude and encouraging the children to be resourceful, inventive and creative. We understand how competent young children can be and how well they respond to being trusted with responsibility, thus boosting their self confidence and self esteem.
Our Image of the Child
Our aims for forest school are closely linked to our image of the child and the key qualities that we feel are important for children
To be confident in their own abilities
To be curious and independent
To be sociable and enjoy learning with others
To be creative and imaginative and explore many possibilities
To be resilient and to keep on trying
Please follow the link to read 33 things a child should do before 10 years old !