Forest Schools

Pupils from Years 5 and 6 at Middleton Primary School swapped their classrooms for the great outdoors last week during a special Forest School intervention designed to build confidence, teamwork, and a love for nature. Held in the school’s woodland area, the sessions included a range of hands-on activities that encouraged the children to work together, learn new skills, and reconnect with the natural environment. One of the first tasks saw pupils rolling up their sleeves to help clear overgrown paths and remove fallen debris, making the woodland safer and more accessible for everyone. “It was hard work, but it felt good to help,” said Carson. “It’s like we made the forest our own.” With the paths cleared, the children turned their attention to creative team challenges, including den building using natural materials. The pupils demonstrated impressive problem-solving as they designed shelters sturdy enough to withstand a strong breeze—and a few enthusiastic testers. Later in the week, the group learned the basics of fire safety and built small campfires under close supervision. The highlight for many came when they got to toast marshmallows and create gooey, delicious s’mores.