Forest School is an outdoor nature-based community which promotes a learner centred process. This offers the opportunity for holistic development; physical, emotional, social, spiritual and intellectual through regular sessions. Forest School is a long-term programme which supports play, exploration and risk-taking using tools and fire, solving real life problems and building self-belief and resilience through hands-on experiences.

Taking place in the Wildlife Garden at Surrey Docks Farm, Forest School aims to engage and connect home educated children from ages 8 to 13 with nature offering the opportunity for children to use tools, build and light fires, cook on a fire, make arts and crafts with natural materials and explore the wildlife, plants and trees on site. Children will also have hands-on experiences with the farm animals.

Previous sessions have been themed around survival, nature’s elements: fire, water, air and earth, exploring the layers of the Forest, and sensory awareness. Please have a look at the Farm’s social media sites or newsletters for photographs and updates on each programme.

Staffing and Ratios

The sessions are led by Jo, a qualified Forest School Leader who holds an Outdoor Forest School with Paediatric First Aid certificate and enhanced DBS check. Jo is a Youth Worker, working with the Saturday Young Farmers and is passionate about offering Forest School sessions for all.

We welcome a group of nine children aged 8-13 led by one staff member and supported by one-two volunteers. We aim to have a ratio of 1 adult to 3 children. Please note, unfortunately we cannot offer 1:1 support due to the small number of Forest School staff.

Each term the groups are evaluated by Forest School staff and the Farm Manager and changes may be made as necessary.

How can my child get involved?

We are deliver six-week programmes on Friday mornings that welcome up to nine children per session. This group is currently at capacity.

If you would like to be kept informed of future dates or to join the waiting list, the guidance for places is as follows:

1. Please complete the waiting list and enquiry form available below. If you have highlighted any additional support needs or health conditions for your child, the Forest School Leader will get in touch to discuss needs and support.
2. Taster sessions will be advertised when there is enough demand, and your child will be invited to attend.
3. If your child would like to continue following the taster session, your child will be invited to join the appropriate group when a place becomes available.

Forest School queries

If you have any further questions or would like more information on any aspect of Forest School please email Jo, Forest School Leader: jo@surreydocksfarm.org.uk