Why is Forest School Important?

At Radcliffe on Trent Junior School, we believe that outdoor learning plays a crucial role in children's development. Forest School provides a wealth of benefits, helping to nurture well-rounded, resilient, and confident learners.

• Physical Health Benefits – Spending time outdoors increases oxygen levels, boosting brain function. Active movement strengthens bones, reduces the risk of obesity, and improves overall fitness. Sunlight exposure enhances vitamin D production, supporting immune health and resilience.

• Mental Health Benefits – Green spaces help to reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), promoting calmness and well-being. Lower cortisol levels also improve brain receptivity, enhancing learning and memory.

• Social Benefits – Research shows that natural play environments encourage leadership through intelligence and imagination, rather than physical dominance. Outdoor play fosters teamwork, communication, and language development.

• Risk Awareness – Playing in nature teaches children how to assess and manage risks. Learning to navigate acceptable challenges from a young age helps them develop better decision-making skills in the future.

• Behaviour – The combination of outdoor space and the calming effects of nature often leads to improved behaviour, increased focus, and a greater sense of well-being.

Forest School is more than just time outside—it is a powerful tool for developing physical health, emotional resilience, social confidence, and lifelong learning skills.