Hilltop Forest School
A Forest School nurtures an understanding and respect for natural places. Its pedagogy is play-based and learner-centred (initiated and led), giving each child the opportunity to manage risks, explore what intrigues them, solve problems related to their interests and gain a range of skills in the natural environment.
Each Forest School is unique but all observe 3 key principles:
-
Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural wooded environment to support the development of a relationship between learner and the natural world.
-
Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
-
Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
At Hilltop we offer 3 Forest School experiences run by qualified Forest School leaders:
-
On-site curriculum time and after-school opportunities in the Enchanted Garden (Hilltop's own Forest School site)
-
Off-site Forest School at Tilgate Park in association with the Sussex Wildlife Trust
-
A Forest School residential trip at Lodge Hill, Pulborough
