Forest School

Forest School sessions boost confidence, wellbeing, and self-esteem through nature, play, and safe risk-taking.

Our Forest School began in March 2025 with the planting of around 400 saplings on our school field. While these young trees will take time to grow and mature, they have already helped to create a unique, natural space where our Forest School sessions take place. Our ever-evolving Forest School is led by Mrs O’Reilly, who is currently working towards her Level 3 Forest School Leader qualification, alongside her role as a class teacher. 

Forest School is a child-centred, inspirational approach that supports holistic growth through regular, long-term sessions in nature. It encourages play, exploration, and supported risk-taking in a safe, nurturing environment. Children are given the freedom to lead their own learning, develop confidence and resilience, and build self-esteem through hands-on experiences in the natural world. 

The Forest School ethos is rooted in a Scandinavian tradition known as friluftsliv—a deep appreciation for life outdoors. Since arriving in the UK in 1993, the movement has grown steadily, with trained practitioners around the world continually developing their skills to support imaginative and independent learners. 

At Thrapston Primary School, Forest School helps children grow socially, emotionally, spiritually, physically, and intellectually. They learn to take appropriate risks, solve real-world challenges, and develop a meaningful connection to nature and their place within it.