At Surbiton High School, our Forest School programme brings our motto, “May Love Always Lead Us”, to life. Here, pupils are encouraged to care for living things, explore the natural environment, and grow in confidence and independence. Forest School is a place to try new things, get creative, and simply have fun in an inspiring outdoor setting.
We spoke with Miss Baldwin, Mrs Roberts and Miss Smart, who lead our Forest School at the Boys’ Prep and Girls’ Prep Schools, about the many benefits of outdoor learning for our pupils.
Why Learning Outdoors Matters
Spending time outside gives pupils so much more than fresh air. It helps them develop essential life skills, from teamwork and communication to resilience and problem-solving. Pupils build both fine and gross motor skills, learn how to take safe risks, and enjoy the simple joy of being creative in nature. Away from screens, they can imagine, experiment, and find their own ways to play.
Growing Confidence and Independence
According to our Forest School Leads, it allows pupils to explore at their own pace. With less structure than the classroom, they can follow their curiosity, experiment, and take safe risks – whether it’s building a den, lighting a fire, or trying out tools. Adults step back, letting pupils figure things out for themselves, which boosts confidence and nurtures independence.
Skills Learned Along the Way
Our sessions are packed with exciting activities that develop practical, creative, and physical skills:
- Practical skills: Cooking on an open fire, den building, whittling, sawing, pond dipping, and using tools safely
- Creative skills: Mud painting, weaving, nature crowns, and imaginative play in the mud kitchen
- Physical skills: Climbing, balancing, swinging, carrying, and exploring the terrain
- Teamwork: Collaborating on den-building, rafts, or other projects
Pupils particularly enjoy making smores over the fire, discovering tadpoles in the pond, whittling sticks, building swings, or simply playing freely with their friends outside.
Memorable Forest School Moments
They highlighted some unforgettable moments: from the first successful fire to painting bluebells at the edge of the forest. Watching pupils laugh, get muddy, problem-solve, and gain confidence is a joy for everyone involved. Every small achievement, whether building a dam, spotting a new bug, or crafting a friendship bracelet, adds to their sense of accomplishment.
Well-Being in the Great Outdoors
Forest School offers a space to breathe, forget about time, and just be present. Pupils enjoy fresh air, build friendships, and discover new ideas for play and learning. Miss Baldwin shares, “It’s a place where they can recharge, grow in confidence, and experience the simple pleasure of being a child in nature.”
Linking Outdoor Learning to the Classroom
Forest School complements classroom learning perfectly. Pupils can put theory into practice, whether it’s constructing wooden toys while studying the Victorians or observing seasonal changes in science. For younger pupils, activities strengthen fine and gross motor skills, supporting everyday tasks such as writing, PE, and dressing themselves.
Mrs Roberts remarks, “Most importantly, we hope pupils remember the fun, freedom, and joy of Forest School. It is a place to explore, be creative, try new things, and grow into confident, curious, and caring individuals.”