We love learning outside the classroom!

“A Forest School is an innovative educational approach to outdoor play and learning.”

The philosophy of Forest Schools is to encourage and inspire individuals of any age through positive outdoor experiences.

At Aston Rowant we encourage children to participate in engaging, motivating and achievable activities in our beautiful outdoor environment. Each child has an opportunity to develop intrinsic motivation, sound emotional and social skills whilst enjoying the 'awe and wonder' of the world around us.  All our children take part in Forest Friday no matter what the weather so we ask that all children bring in wet weather clothing and wellies at the start of term. 

Our children learn outside the classroom on a regular basis and through play, have the opportunity to learn about the natural environment, how to handle risks and most importantly to use their own initiative to solve problems and co-operate with others.

These activities run throughout the year, learning outside in all weathers. Children use full sized tools, play, learn boundaries of behaviour; both physical and social, establish and grow in confidence, self-esteem and become self-motivated.

At Aston Rowant, we aim to develop:

• Self Awareness

• Self Regulation and a sense of choice and responsibility

• A sense of awe and wonder in the world around us, the seasons and all that being outside brings.

• Intrinsic motivation

• Empathy and compassion towards others

• Respect for the world around us

• Good social communication skills

• Independence

• A positive mental attitude, self-esteem and confidence

   

  Children, and more and more, adults need time to thoroughly explore their thoughts, feelings and relationships. This time and reflective practice develops understanding of the world, the environment and everything within it through the use of emotions, imagination and senses.

   

  If you are able to help with our outdoor learning activities, please contact Mrs France or our school office.

Learning Outside in our beautiful surroundings.

Building fires and toasting marshmallows

Climbing and exploring. Taking risks and learning in 'The Wilderness'.

Using our lovely environment to stimulate our writing.

We have been exploring our school grounds during Forest Friday Activities.

Muddy Hands. Muddy Faces.

Come and have a look at our sensory garden. There is so much to see, hear, feel, smell and even taste!

Click on the pictures to take a closer look.