Forest School at Larwood Stevenage
A Natural Space for Learning and Growth
At Larwood School Stevenage, we are incredibly proud of our thriving Forest School provision. Forest School is much more than outdoor play – it is a holistic, child-centred approach to learning that nurtures confidence, resilience, creativity, and a deep connection with the natural world.
Our Forest School Team
We are fortunate to have three fully qualified Forest School leaders on our staff team, each bringing passion, expertise, and a commitment to outdoor learning. Our leaders are trained to deliver safe, inspiring, and developmentally appropriate sessions that respond to the needs and interests of every child.
Our Beautiful Forest School Space
Our dedicated Forest School area is a haven of natural beauty and adventure. Nestled within our school grounds, the space offers:
Mature trees and natural vegetation that change with the seasons
A fire circle for safe campfire cooking and storytelling
Sheltered spaces for den building and imaginative play
Natural resources including logs, branches, mud, and water
A calm, open environment that invites exploration, discovery, and wonder
This special outdoor classroom provides children with the freedom to take risks, make choices, and learn through hands-on, sensory experiences in all weathers.
Weekly Sessions for Every Class
Every class at Larwood enjoys regular Forest School sessions as part of their timetable. These weekly opportunities allow children to:
Develop practical skills such as tool use, knot tying, and fire lighting
Engage in collaborative play and problem-solving
Build physical strength, coordination, and spatial awareness
Observe seasonal changes and develop respect for the environment
Experience success and build self-esteem in a supportive, non-judgemental setting
Forest School sessions are tailored to the age, ability, and social-emotional needs of each group, ensuring that every child can access, enjoy, and benefit from outdoor learning.
Targeted Interventions
In addition to whole-class sessions, we offer Forest School interventions for individual children and small groups. These targeted sessions provide additional support for children who may benefit from:
Extra opportunities to regulate emotions and manage anxiety
A smaller, quieter setting to build confidence and communication skills
Sensory and exploratory activities that support attention and engagement
Time and space to develop trust, resilience, and positive relationships with adults and peers
Our Forest School leaders work closely with class teachers and our pastoral team to identify children who will benefit most from intervention sessions, ensuring a personalised and responsive approach.
The Benefits of Forest School
Research and our own experience show that Forest School has a profound and lasting impact on children’s wellbeing and development. Benefits include:
Increased confidence and self-esteem – children take manageable risks and experience success
Improved physical health and fitness – active outdoor play in all weathers builds strength and resilience
Enhanced social skills – working together, sharing resources, and solving problems fosters cooperation and empathy
Greater emotional regulation – time in nature supports calm, focus, and emotional wellbeing
Deeper engagement with learning – curiosity-led, hands-on experiences spark wonder and a love of learning
Connection to nature – children develop respect, care, and responsibility for the environment
Our Forest School Ethos
At Larwood, our Forest School ethos is rooted in the belief that every child deserves time, space, and freedom to learn, grow, and be themselves in the natural world. We celebrate:
Child-led learning – following children’s interests and allowing them to guide their own discoveries
Learning through play – valuing the process, not just the outcome
Risk and challenge – supporting children to assess and manage age-appropriate risks in a safe environment
Respect and care – for ourselves, each other, and the natural environment
Inclusion and belonging – ensuring that every child, regardless of need or ability, can access and thrive in Forest School
Forest School is woven into the fabric of life at Larwood. It enriches our curriculum, supports our children’s wellbeing, and helps every child to flourish – not just as learners, but as confident, curious, and compassionate individuals.
Learn More
If you would like to know more about our Forest School provision, or if you have any questions, please contact the school office or speak to one of our Forest School leaders.
Larwood School – Growing, learning, and thriving together in nature.
