'How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity'.  Psalm 133:1

Intent

The intent of forest school, at Roehampton Church Forest School (RCFS), is to provide every child with the opportunity to flourish through hands-on, meaningful experiences in the natural world. Our programme nurtures the whole child; emotionally, socially, physically, and spiritually, by offering purposeful learning opportunities that celebrate exploration, creativity, and unity.

Through our Forest School curriculum, we aim to:

Foster a sense of community and unity, rooted in our Christian ethos and Psalm 133:1, as children learn, play, and grow together in nature.

Develop the RCFS values in action:

• Responsible: by caring for the environment, using tools safely, and taking ownership of learning.
• Caring: through teamwork, empathy, and respect for others and creation.
• Fearless: by taking measured risks, problem-solving, and stepping outside comfort zones.
• Secure: by building confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being through exploration and success in the outdoors.

Encourage environmental stewardship and a deep appreciation of God’s creation.

Build progressive skills and knowledge through five developmental levels, from Beginners  (Nursery/Reception) to Experts (Year 6), enabling all children to grow in independence, skill, and leadership.

Implementation

Forest School at RCFS is delivered through weekly, child-led sessions held on Putney Heath, next to the school. Every child from Nursery to Year 6 participates, ensuring equal access and continuity of learning.

Our implementation reflects both the six principles of Forest School and our school values:

• Progressive skill development in tool use, shelter building, rope work, fire safety, foraging, and environmental understanding - all taught through hands-on exploration.
• Cross-curricular links with Science, Design & Technology, Art, Food Technology, and PSHE to deepen understanding and creativity.
• Values in action - children are encouraged to act responsibly (through care for the environment), caringly (by supporting peers), fearlessly (by embracing challenges), and securely (knowing they are safe, supported, and valued).
• Reflective practice - children discuss their learning, emotions, and choices, developing mindfulness, empathy, and communication skills.
• Inclusive and safe experiences, with adaptations made for different needs and clear boundaries to promote confidence and well-being.
• Faith and reflection - opportunities are woven in for children to wonder, appreciate, and give thanks for creation, reinforcing our Christian distinctiveness.

(Fire skills, such as friction lighting and cooking, are currently on hold due to insurance guidance, but remain a planned future element of the curriculum.)

Impact

Forest School has a profound and lasting impact on the RCFS community. Children leave each session joyful, grounded, and connected to one another, to nature, and to God’s world.

• Personal Development: Children become Responsible, self-reliant, and confident learners who take pride in their progress.
• Social Growth: The sense of unity described in Psalm 133:1 is lived out daily; children communicate, cooperate, and resolve conflicts with empathy and respect.
• Academic Enrichment: Outdoor learning enhances curiosity, problem-solving, and understanding across the curriculum, particularly in science and creative subjects.
• Physical and Mental Well-being: Regular activity in nature supports coordination, balance, resilience, and emotional regulation.
• Spiritual and Moral Growth: Children develop a sense of awe, gratitude, and stewardship for God’s creation, living out our Christian vision and values in authentic ways.

Ultimately, forest school at RCFS empowers every child to be responsible, caring, fearless and secure; united in their learning, their friendships, and their love of the world around them.