Woodland lessons for Sunny Brow children

Youngsters at Sunny Brow Nursery School are to be woodland explorers thanks to a new ‘outdoor classroom’.

A patch of woodland has been cleared of brambles and bushes so that the three and four-year-old pupils can be safely supervised by staff as they learn all about the woodland around them.

It means that Sunny Brow has been designated as a Forest School, in idea that originated in Denmark but is now catching on in Middleton!

With encouragement and guidance, the children will be able to explore, learn about and enjoy all aspects of a natural environment.

That could be everything from learning about different trees, plants and wildlife, to looking for fairy faces in tree bark, collecting leaves and plants to make potions or creating pieces of art from the things they find around them.

Before the children had their first outdoor lesson, staff received the relevant training and parents were given a tour of the wood.

Children were also taken through safety and hygiene routines and told what was expected of their behaviour while outside.

The idea behind Forest Schools is to encourage and allow children to develop self-esteem and social skills and to build their confidence. It is generally believed that this sort of approach helps a child’s ability and desire to learn.

It is an approach that reflects the Government’s ‘Every Child Matters’ programme and its five key points, to be healthy, stay safe, enjoy and achieve, make a positive contribution and achieve economic well-being.

Sunny Brow head, Julie White, said: “Our governors are very supportive and together we involve parents as much as possible in the life of the school.

“They are included in the school’s projects and we encourage their interest in their child’s education and development.

“While in their early years it is imperative to encourage children, and to maximise opportunities for their learning and enjoyment. Children, parents and staff all enjoy their time at Sunny Brow and it is a resource the local community is proud of.”