The Forest School Approach at Footsteps

At Footsteps Nursery & Pre-School, we believe that childhood should be full of wonder, freedom and discovery. That’s why the Forest School approach is at the heart of everything we do across our nurseries and pre-schools. Whether children are learning in our gardens, outdoor classrooms, local parks or our dedicated Forest School site in Chalfont St Peter, nature is part of daily life at Footsteps.

What is Forest School?

Forest School is a long-term, child-led educational approach that takes place in natural outdoor environments. It encourages children to explore, discover and learn through hands-on experiences, supported risk-taking and meaningful play.

Rather than being a one-off session, Forest School is a way of learning that builds confidence, independence and resilience over time.

It gives children freedom to move, think, solve problems and grow at their own pace.

Why Forest School Matters

Forest School supports the whole child, not just academically, but socially, emotionally and physically. Outdoors, children have the space to follow their curiosity, make decisions, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. Through Forest School, children develop:

  • Confidence and self-esteem by overcoming challenges
  • Communication and language through teamwork and storytelling
  • Physical development through climbing, balancing and movement
  • Problem-solving skills using real tools and natural materials
  • Emotional wellbeing through time in nature and calm exploration
  • Respect for nature developing care for wildlife and the environment
  • Resilience learning through trial, error and success

What Forest School Looks Like at Footsteps

Children enjoy rich outdoor experiences such as:

  • Den building and shelter making
  • Using real tools under supervision
  • Nature crafts and creative projects
  • Exploring mud kitchens and natural materials
  • Bug hunting, nature walks and wildlife observation
  • Group challenges that build teamwork and friendship
  • Outdoor storytelling, songs and imagination play

Every session is relaxed and child-led, allowing children time and space to explore in their own way.

Forest School Principles We Follow

Our Forest School practice is built around five core principles:
  1. Child-led learning: children follow their interests and lead their own discoveries
  2. Regular outdoor sessions: learning happens in nature in all seasons
  3. Supported risk-taking: children learn how to assess and manage risk safely
  4. Holistic development: supporting emotional, physical, social and cognitive growth
  5. Respect for nature: developing stewardship and care for the natural world

A Footsteps Difference

While all Footsteps settings embrace Forest School-inspired learning, our Chalfont St Peter nursery has its own dedicated Forest School area, where children experience woodland learning with specialist equipment and tools. Other sites enjoy daily access to outdoor play spaces, woodland walks, nature exploration, and outdoor learning opportunities wherever possible.

We believe every child should have the chance to experience the magic of nature, to climb, explore, and learn with joy. We’d love to show you how the Forest School approach inspires our children every day.

Get in touch to arrange a visit to your nearest Footsteps nursery or pre-school.