Park Community Academy aims to use the outdoor Forest areas to offer all children an insight into the Forest School ethos. We believe that regular 
access to woodland or natural environments encourages children to become more independent, use their imagination, take appropriate risks within boundaries and initiate learning for themselves. Through our Forest School sessions, young people learn about the natural world through self-directed exploration, as well as more directed learning through a range of educational activities. They can participate in craft and construction projects using natural materials and tools, enjoy playful activities and games, develop a variety of skills and learn to challenge themselves. Whilst learning to be at home in the outdoor environment, children develop curiosity, confidence, self-esteem, creativity, empathy and communication skills as well as support their mental well-being.
Our Forest areas will be used by pupils across the school and the Forest sessions will be delivered by Teachers which will be overseen by our Forest school level 3 leader. Activities carried out can vary from class projects, Arts Award activities, DofE, Art/Technology lessons to Forest School Skills set out in the Forest School Progression Document.
Each session will underpin our ‘6 PCA forest school principles’.
Principle 1: Forest School is a long-term process of frequent and regular sessions in a woodland or natural environment, rather than a one-off visit.
Planning, adaptation, observations and reviewing are integral elements of Forest School.’
Principle 2: Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural wooded environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.
Principle 3: Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
Principle 4: Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
Principle 5: Forest School will be run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.
Principle 6: Forest School uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for development and learning.
Welcome to our Forests
The Hive
Welcome to The Hive there is always a hive of activity in this Forest. We recently had an Outdoor Classroom built which has enabled staff and pupils to take their lessons outdoors opening children to new adventures and maximizing our use of learning space.
The Forest
Welcome to the Forest there is always something new to discover. From building shelters to finding mini beats deep in the soil. Children are motivated to learn, explore and gain more understanding of nature.
Primary Progression of Skills