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FOREST SCHOOL
At Little Crickets Pre-School, we believe Forest School offers children a unique opportunity to grow in confidence, independence, and self-esteem while building a lasting connection with nature.
Our vision is for every child, particularly those preparing to move on to primary school, to have regular access to a woodland or natural outdoor environment where they can explore, learn, and thrive.
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OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES
By following these principles, we aim to provide every child at Little Crickets with rich outdoor experiences that prepare them for life beyond preschool. Forest School helps children to flourish—developing curiosity, resilience, and creativity, alongside a lifelong love for the great outdoors.
01
Regular outdoor learning
Children take part in sessions throughout the year, experiencing different seasons and weather. These sessions are not one-off events, but part of a long-term journey of growth and discovery, shaped by planning, observation, and reflection.
03
Holistic development
Forest School nurtures the whole child—physically, socially, emotionally, linguistically, cognitively, and spiritually. Staff recognise and support different learning styles, linking experiences to home, community, and wider preschool learning.
05
Qualified leadership
Sessions are led by a Level 3 Forest School Practitioner with up-to-date Paediatric First Aid training. Additional trained First Aiders and a high adult-to-child ratio ensure children’s safety and high-quality support throughout. Staff act as role models, encouraging safe risk-taking, empathy, and teamwork.
02
Connection with nature
Learning takes place in a carefully managed natural environment that protects plants and wildlife. Over time, children develop a deep appreciation for nature, an understanding of sustainability, and a sense of responsibility for the world around them.
04
Supported risk-taking
Children are encouraged to take age-appropriate risks, helping them to build confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills. All activities are carefully risk-assessed and adapted to the developmental stage of each child.
06
Child-led learning
Play, curiosity, and choice are at the heart of Forest School. Children are empowered to follow their own interests, while adults observe, guide, and scaffold learning in ways that best support each child’s development. Staff also reflect on their own learning, growing alongside the children.
SKILLS FOR LIFE
Through Forest School, children develop important life skills—setting and achieving their own goals, working together with others, and learning how to navigate challenges. We want all children to benefit from experiences that support physical health, emotional well-being, resilience, social skills, creativity, and motivation. Along the way, they are introduced to exciting new challenges, such as using tools for whittling or sawing, building with natural materials.
