Question 1

What's the difference between a Forest School and a Nursery?

Accepted Answer

Forest school as an educational concept was introduced into the UK from its origins in Scandinavia in 1994. Since those humble beginnings, the forest school concept has blossomed throughout the UK. While all nurseries adhere to the Early Years Framework, The Woodshed distinguishes itself by emphasizing holistic development. Beyond conventional classroom settings, we create an immersive environment that nurtures not only academic skills but also a child's physical, social, and emotional well-being. Our approach integrates nature into every aspect of learning, fostering a connection with the environment while incorporating the Early Years Framework. This unique blend ensures that children not only meet developmental milestones but also develop a well-rounded foundation for lifelong success.

Question 2

How will my child transition to primary school after a life spent in the forest?

Accepted Answer

We understand the concerns parents may have about the transition to primary school. Rest assured, our unique approach revolves around fostering emotional intelligence—the very building blocks of your child's development. We believe that a strong foundation in emotional intelligence is essential for success in school and beyond. Through our nature-rich curriculum, children not only connect with the natural world but also develop vital social and emotional skills. As your child transitions to primary school, they carry with them the resilience and self-awareness nurtured in our forest setting, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the academic journey with confidence and a deep understanding of themselves and others.

Question 3

What will happen if the weather is bad?

Accepted Answer

"There's no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing" 
This is an old Scandinavian saying which is of great importance at The Woodshed as sessions take place in almost all weathers. It is important that all participants are suitably dressed for Forest School otherwise, they will feel uncomfortable and miserable and are unlikely to enjoy the experience. Assessments of weather conditions are constantly taken prior to a session and the forecast will be monitored. Sessions will be moved into one of the scout huts and we will utilise  open meadows if: 
·      The temperature is deemed extreme. 
·      If the wind speed is above 30mph. 
·      If there is lightening within a 30 km radius of Frylands Wood. 
Where possible, the sessions will carry on at basecamp regardless of the weather as long as it is deemed as safe. The Woodshed may close due to extreme and unforeseen weather conditions. For perspective, this has happened on one occasion, for one day over the past five years

Question 4

What should my child wear in the forest?

Accepted Answer

For Health and Safety reasons, it is essential that your child is sufficiently equipped everyday they attend. Children will not be allowed to stay if they are inappropriately dressed. During extreme temperatures of heat and cold parents / carers will be advised on our shared Whattsapp group of additional / appropriate clothing to provide.

We ask all parents / carers to leave a bag of spare clothing with us in case your child is wet or requires additional clothing. This should include:

Spare set of thermal base layers - long sleeve top and leggings (winter)
2 sets of underwear
Spare socks 
Spare Gloves / Mittens

Parents / carers are also required to provide  the following clothing:

Winter Months / Colder Weather 
 
Waterproof / Windproof Jacket & Dungarees (can be supplied by The Woodshed upon registration)
(If purchased by parents / carers,   the jacket must be bright yellow, windproof & waterproof)
Base layer thermal long sleeve top 1st layer
Base layer thermal long leggings 1st layer (additional layer of fleece tracksuit bottoms may be added if needed)
Long sleeve top 2nd layer 
Fleece top/jumper long sleeve 3rd layer 
Warm winter socks
Warm hat and snood (a snood is better than a scarf)
Waterproof neoprene or fleece wellington boots or waterproof walking / snow boots
Mittens or Gloves

Summer Months / Warmer Weather

Bright coloured (not green) short sleeve top (covered shoulders to avoid burning)
Jumper (as it can be cool at the beginning/end of the day or in the shaded forest areas) 
Dungarees / Long trousers (these are still a necessity to prevent scratches and stings)
Socks 
Sun hat
Walking boots or equivalent
Wellington boots – to be brought each day (water activities)

Children are also required to attend nursery with a rucksack and a water bottle

Question 5

Is a life spent outside risky?

Accepted Answer

We understand the importance of risk in a child's development. While children naturally learn to manage risks, our dedicated staff team play a vital role in guiding them through this process. By encouraging children to think about risks, our approach aims to lower the likelihood of injuries. Rest assured, all our staff members are trained in paediatric first aid, ensuring a prompt and capable response to any incidents. In the event of an injury, parents are promptly informed either immediately or by the end of the day. The manager and deputy are contactable throughout the day  and provide  open communication about your child's well-being.

The Woodshed Forest School Nursery

Learning to live and grow in the natural environment

What's the difference between a Forest School and a Nursery?

How will my child transition to primary school after a life spent in the forest?

What will happen if the weather is bad?

What should my child wear in the forest?

Is a life spent outside risky?