Every pupil at Christ the King Catholic School in Amesbury will now take part in a weekly Forest School session following an expansion and revamp of the school’s outdoor provision.
The school, part of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, has improved its Forest School area and trained a member of staff to lead sessions, giving children across every year group regular opportunities to learn, explore and develop practical skills outdoors.
During the sessions, pupils take part in activities including building shelters, using tools, working with natural materials and solving problems together.
The school says the sessions will help children develop confidence, independence, teamwork and resilience alongside their classroom learning, while also encouraging them to spend more time exploring the natural environment.
With the revamped outdoor space and trained staff now in place, every pupil will be able to benefit from Forest School as part of their weekly timetable.
Sophie Short, headteacher at Christ the King Catholic School, said, “Forest School is such a valuable part of our children’s experience at Christ the King, so we’re really pleased to be able to give every pupil the chance to take part every week.
“We’ve been working hard to improve the space and develop our provision, and it’s wonderful to see children making the most of it. Whether they’re learning to use tools, creating something from natural materials or simply working together outdoors, there are so many opportunities for children to learn in a different way.
“We’re proud of our village school feel in the heart of Amesbury, and our Forest School provision is a great example of how we can make the most of the environment around us.”
Helen Taylor, CEO of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, added, “Forest School gives children the chance to learn in a different way, while building practical skills and a love of the world around them. It’s wonderful to see Christ the King making this experience part of every child’s week.”
For more information about Christ the King Catholic School, visit www.christtheking.wilts.sch.uk.
