Forest school is an inspirational and fun experience for you and your child. It is a long term programme that offers learning and development through child led play, exploration and risk taking. Its hands on learning in a natural setting and helps build self confidence, self esteem, nature connection and well-being.Forest school involves risky activities such as use of fire, tools, tree climbing and mud play.

We do a risk benefit analysis of every activity but please be aware that we cannot remove all risk and we encourage children to understand and manage their own risk in a real world setting.Forest School Leaders are highly trained facilitators and will work with the children to develop their connection with nature, they are also trained in Safeguarding, First Aid and are all DBS checked.

At Muddy Feet nature connection runs through everything we do, in fact its all based on a growing body of research which we use in our programme development.

We use natural items found in the woods for the activities, we believe that Forest School should be a wild experience and not just bringing the indoors outdoors. All the activities are planned as part of a long term programme to develop your child, so the more you attend the more you get out of it.

The Forest School Association has produced this video on Forest School, if you want to find out more

What are the benefits of Forest School?
There are so many benefits to Forest School including:
Social development
Building self esteem
Builds confidence
Improved mental and physical health
Creative, independent learners
Building resilience
Development of motor skills
Nature knowledge and connection
Fun

Just a few notes –

• Please make sure appropriate clothing is worn, long sleeves and trousers are advisable if possible. Closed toed shoes or trainers are best or wellies if it has been raining.
• Make sure you bring gloves and waterproofs…who knows what the British weather may have in store for us.
• There is NO onsite parking at Elmsbrook. Please walk or cycle if possible or catch the E1 bus. You can check out the times here: https://oxontime.com/home
• There are no refreshment or toilet facilities on site, please bring water and snacks. If bringing snacks, please avoid any nut-based products.
• If any medication or allergy relief may be required, please bring along with you.
• Please can we request that only ONE adult attends with each child.

There is NO onsite parking at Elmsbrook. Please walk or cycle if possible or catch the E1 bus. You can check out the times here: https://oxontime.com/home

Elmsbrook Forest School is located off Charlotte Avenue (OX27 8AS) behind Gaglebrook Primary School.