Forest School
We have recently transformed a neglected part of our grounds into the ‘Wild Garden’ – our very own site for Forest School.
Our Witley Forest School is different from outdoor learning and comprises regular, child-centred sessions within the natural environment that take place throughout the year. Children in Year 1 are taught in small groups of 15 with a higher than normal staff ratio so that our children can immerse themselves in our Forest School experience.
“Forest School is great – I love building dens.”
Children experience the seasons first hand and observe changes to the area over time; their activities work in harmony with the environment to ensure the flora and fauna are preserved. There are many benefits of being outdoors and research has shown that it improves communication skills, positive social interactions and well-being.
“Forest School is great – I love building dens.”
Children experience the seasons first hand and observe changes to the area over time; their activities work in harmony with the environment to ensure the flora and fauna are preserved. There are many benefits of being outdoors and research has shown that it improves communication skills, positive social interactions and well-being.
Pets as Therapy
We have weekly visits from a Pets As Therapy dog. Children go in pairs, with an adult, to read to our PAT dog in the library. All children will have the chance to do this during their time at Witley C of E Infant School and the scheme has such a positive impact on everyone involved.
Cultural Enrichment
On a rainy November day, we enjoyed a visit from Kwame of African Activities.
He arrived with a van filled with drums, balafons, shakers and guitars and made it feel like the sun was shining! As well as learning how to make lots of sounds on the djembe drums, the children also enjoyed some storytelling and very energetic dancing. We finished the day by inviting parents in to watch – they were so enthusiastic they all ended up playing the drums themselves…
Kwame is from Ghana in West Africa and Graduated from the Ghanatta College Of Arts. He was also the artist in residence at the National Centre for Culture in Kumasi for a number of years. The children really enjoyed learning about Ghana and we are already eagerly awaiting Kwame’s next visit.
This experience is all part of giving the children a wider view of the world beyond their local community. As part of this we also raise money for the Coco’s Foundation.
