At Northchapel our Forest School is based closely on the Forest School concept that originated in Denmark in the 1980s. Through regular sessions outdoors we are developing the pupil's self-confidence, self-esteem, creativity, independence and team work skills through a carefully planned series of activities while also nurturing the children’s appreciation of and respect for nature and the natural environment. The children learn through direct, hands-on experience using ‘hand, heart and head’.

In September 2011 our Forest School Leader Julia Edwards began the process of Forest School. Since then, Hannah Enticknap (Grasshopper Class teacher), who trained alongside Julia, has also joined the team. This year Primrose Waller has undergone her level 3 training as well. We found great local woodland within a 5 minute walk through the back of the school and through farmland. The development of our Forest School programme builds on a wealth of existing good practice in the school with learning outdoors. With the development of Forest School we are extending such outdoor learning opportunities to an even greater number of the pupils who wouldn’t normally have these opportunities outside of school.  Our Governor, Andy Tate is a huge support to our weekly sessions as he attends most weeks and always brings fun activities to engage our children, especially the ropes for tree climbing, bridge building, swings and zip wires .