At Mugginton, celebrating and appreciating the wonder of animals and the natural world is an integral part of our identity - learning definitely does not happen only inside! We are very fortunate to have use of a lovely forest site, only a short walk from the school. Every Friday afternoon, the whole school walks down to the forest to enjoy outdoor learning.

Forest Schools: Intent, Implementation, Impact

At Mugginton Church of England Primary School, Forest Schools provides a nurturing space that supports our children’s wellbeing by providing and implementing positive, outdoor, child-centred experiences in a natural setting. We endeavour to promote and develop a love, and respect, for nature and the great outdoors.

All children participate in Forest Schools, every Friday afternoon. Mrs Wallen leads the sessions alongside Mrs Bennett, with Mrs Sweeny and Mr Wraith assisting each week. The children participate in 4 different mixed-aged groups, where they work collaboratively to develop a range of practical skills such as knot tying, fire lighting and the safe, responsible use of tools. 

Children are active, take ownership of their learning and develop their self-esteem through a variety of tasks. Children develop knowledge of sustainability and respect for their learning environment and the outdoors as a whole. They enjoy nature hunts, identifying trees, plants, birds and insects. Children develop their teamwork skills and increase their capability to work together to solve problems in a variety of ways, taking into account one another’s ideas. Positive relationships are built through these sessions and children are both enabled and empowered to achieve their holistic potential.