Forest School

Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.
Albert Einstein

Forest School Lessons at Hollinwood Academy

At Hollinwood Academy, our Forest School lessons provide children with exciting opportunities to learn, explore and grow in the natural environment. Through hands-on activities, outdoor challenges and child-led discovery, children develop confidence, resilience, independence and teamwork skills while fostering a deep appreciation for the world around them.

Whether building shelters, investigating wildlife, creating natural art or learning practical outdoor skills, our Forest School sessions encourage curiosity, creativity and problem-solving in a safe and supportive setting. These enriching experiences help children build lifelong connections with nature while supporting their physical, social and emotional development.

At Hollinwood Academy, we believe that some of the most valuable learning happens beyond the classroom, inspiring children to become confident, capable and environmentally aware learners.

Schemes of Work

Forest School at Hollinwood Academy follows a bespoke scheme of work developed to meet the individual needs, interests and learning goals of our pupils. Sessions are carefully planned to provide meaningful outdoor experiences while supporting personal development, curriculum enrichment and EHCP outcomes.

Curriculum Adaptations and Pedagogy

The curriculum adaptations and pedagogy at Hollinwood Academy is centered around meeting the unique needs and abilities of every learner, ensuring equal opportunities for academic, personal, and social development. The primary goals include:

1. Inclusivity: Adapt the curriculum to ensure that all learners have access to quality education, regardless of their individual needs.

2. Adaptive Teaching: Provide personalised learning experiences that cater to the diverse abilities, interests, and learning styles of the children and young people.

3. Progression: Foster a holistic and sequential approach to learning, allowing children and young people to build on their prior knowledge, skills, and understanding from their identified starting points.

4. Empowerment: Develop independent learners who are equipped with the skills, resilience, and self-confidence required to succeed academically and, in their future lives.
Curriculum Adaptations and Pedagogy

Assessment

Children’s progress in Forest School is tracked and assessed through Evidence for Learning using a bespoke Forest School framework designed to capture skills, knowledge and personal development. Assessment focuses on each child’s individual journey, celebrating achievements in areas such as confidence, communication, teamwork and independence. In addition, pupils work towards their EHCP step targets, ensuring that Forest School activities support their wider learning goals and contribute meaningfully to their personal development.