Outdoor Learning at Hertford Prep
At Hertford Prep, Outdoor Learning is more than simply taking lessons outside. It is about creating opportunities for children to explore, discover, and grow in a natural environment - at their own pace and in their own way. For example, rather than instructing a child to climb a tree or setting a target height, we allow them the freedom to choose whether to climb at all. This removes any imposed definition of success or risk of failure. When children decide to participate in an activity, the sense of achievement is wholly theirs - an empowering and valuable experience that fosters intrinsic motivation and self-confidence.
Across the Year Groups
As the children move through the school, their Outdoor Learning experiences develop with them. A child in Year 1 will engage with the natural world very differently from a child in Year 6, but the core ethos remains the same: independence, curiosity, and exploration. Sessions evolve to reflect growing maturity, offering greater levels of responsibility and challenge as appropriate.
Outdoor Learning plays a vital role in our curriculum and is rooted in the belief that children learn best through hands-on experiences, exploration and reflection. In the wake of recent years, where many children spent extended periods indoors, the mental health benefits of time spent in nature have become even more evident. At Hertford Prep, we are committed to educating the whole child, tailoring experiences to individual needs and nurturing personal development alongside academic progress.
Core Principles of Forest School at Hertford Prep
Our approach is underpinned by the core principles of Forest School, which guide the structure and purpose of every session.
1. Long-Term, Regular Engagement
Outdoor Learning is a long-term, continuous process. Children attend regular sessions throughout the year, allowing for reflection, growth, and deeper learning. Each session is thoughtfully planned, with adaptations made based on observations and review.
2. Connection with Nature
Sessions take place in our woodland or natural outdoor environments to support children in building a meaningful connection with the natural world around them.
3. Holistic Development
We aim to nurture the whole child - emotionally, socially, physically, and intellectually. Outdoor Learning helps develop resilience, independence, creativity and confidence in all our pupils.
4. Supported Risk-Taking
Children are encouraged to take appropriate risks within a supportive environment. Whether balancing on a fallen log or using tools safely, they learn to assess situations and build confidence in their decision-making.
5. Qualified Practitioners
All sessions are led by trained and experienced Forest School practitioners, who continually reflect upon and develop their practice to ensure the highest standards of safety, learning and enjoyment.
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Why Hertford Prep?
Co-Curricular
