Forest School is the name of a specific philosophy which aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.

Its roots reach back to the open-air culture seen as away of life in Scandinavian countries where Forest School began.

Although it was adopted by some local authorities in 2000 it wasn’t until 2012 that the Forest School Association in the UK was launched.

At Mountford House we have long since recognised the benefits of green outdoor spaces on the health and well-being of children; which is evident by our fantastic outdoor area, gardening sessions and flourishing vegetable patch.

However we felt we could do more and have been taking children on weekly off-site Forest School visits since 2008.

Our Forest School sessions are designed to promote children’s motivation, curiosity and positive attitudes. We have found they do much more than that. We have seen children’s physical skills and co-ordination improve, their language and vocabulary increase and their self-confidence blossom as children challenge themselves and succeed.

The pre-school manager is our qualified Level 3 Forest School Leader.