Forest School 

Forest School at St Mark’s

Forest School is a child-centred approach to learning that nurtures the whole child, and at St Mark’s it is a valued and integral part of our curriculum. It provides children with rich opportunities to develop socially, emotionally, physically, spiritually and intellectually through regular outdoor experiences.

We are fortunate to have extensive school grounds that provide inspiring spaces for hands-on learning in nature. These environments help every child grow into a healthy, resilient and independent learner.

During Forest School sessions, children are encouraged to explore, play and take supported risks. They try new experiences, challenge themselves and discover their strengths, building confidence, creativity and resilience along the way. This approach connects closely with the ethos of our OPAL lunchtimes, where children learn through exploration and active play.

By learning to assess, understand and manage risk, pupils develop real-world problem-solving skills, work collaboratively and grow in self-belief – essential qualities that support them both in school and beyond.