Forest School at St Alban’s Catholic Voluntary Academy

At St Alban’s, we are proud to offer Forest School, an exciting and hands-on approach to outdoor learning that nurtures creativity, confidence, and teamwork. Under the guidance of our Forest School Leaders, Mr. Lowson and Ms. O’Toole, each class will have the opportunity to experience one Forest School session per term, developing essential skills through nature-based activities.

Forest School Themes

🌲 Advent Term – Shelter and Belonging

During the Advent Term, pupils will explore the themes of shelter and belonging. They will reflect on what it means to be part of a community and how we can help others feel welcome. Through hands-on challenges, children will construct shelters—both large and small—using a variety of materials, developing skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity.

💧 Lent Term – Water and Navigation

In the Lent Term, children will focus on the themes of water and navigation, learning about the importance of water as a fundamental resource for life. They will also develop key skills in map-making and navigation, discovering how these practical skills can be applied in daily life. Through creative and engaging activities, pupils will gain an appreciation for the natural world and its resources.

🔥 Pentecost Term – Fire and Food

The Pentecost Term brings exciting opportunities for pupils to learn about fire safety and outdoor cooking. Children will:

  • Learn how to light a fire without matches
  • Understand how to maintain and extinguish a fire safely
  • Cook food over an open flame, preparing their own meals in a safe and environmentally friendly way

These sessions will help pupils build confidence, responsibility, and practical life skills, all while enjoying the great outdoors.

What is Forest School?

Forest School is a child-led, experiential learning programme that takes place in the natural environment. It encourages pupils to:
✔ Explore the outdoors safely
✔ Use tools and build shelters
✔ Cook over a campfire
✔ Develop resilience and problem-solving skills
✔ Grow in confidence and teamwork

Each term, pupils will engage with nature through a new theme, connecting their learning to the changing seasons and our school’s values.