The wonderful world of nature is a favourite outdoors setting for lessons at St Gregory’s Catholic Primary in Margate.
Children enjoy exploring and learning at the school’s own forest school in the expansive grounds – recently a group of Year 1 pupils took on a range of exciting outdoor challenges.
These included setting up hammocks, gardening, creating water stations and cooking their homemade pizzas over a small fire made by the forest leader.
The children enjoyed exploring secret paths and discovering a range of mini-beasts, bugs and worms, while teamwork and creativity were at the heart of every activity.
St Gregory’s Key Stage 1 leader Rachel Farawi said: “Forest School offers unique benefits, such as encouraging teamwork, resilience and hands-on learning in nature.
“Each Year 1 child has the opportunity to take part in Forest School, building confidence and gaining valuable life skills. We look forward to welcoming new adventurers in the next term.”
Head Teacher Dave Walker added: “The value of this experience cannot be underestimated. We have a lovely safe outdoor space which is ideal for learning in a hands-on woodland environment all year round and in all weather.
“This type of learning enriches pupils’ learning and it motivates them, enhances their social skills, language and communication, motivation and concentration, as well as physical skills.
“Our children say how much they love our forest school initiative and it is clearly an important learning resource that is both fun and challenging, creating many lasting memories.”
