At Godmanchester Community Academy, we are proud to offer a thriving Forest School programme led by our dedicated Forest School Leader, Mrs Hill. This unique provision gives children the chance to learn, play, and grow in the great outdoors — developing confidence, resilience, and a deep connection with nature.

Our Forest School area, located within the school grounds, is a wonderful space for exploration and adventure. It includes a campfire area, mud kitchen, den building zone, hammocks, balance lines, drawing area, seating circle, and even an outdoor toilet — all surrounded by a variety of tree species perfect for climbing and discovery.

Sessions run all week and throughout the year, giving pupils the chance to experience nature in every season.

• EYFS and Year 1 children enjoy weekly Forest School sessions.

• Year 2 pupils take part for at least one term each year.

• We are currently developing a programme to ensure that all year groups have the opportunity to experience the benefits of Forest School during their time at Godmanchester Community Academy.

Forest School also runs as a targeted intervention for identified pupils who benefit from collaborative, outdoor learning experiences. These smaller sessions prioritise social interaction, conversation, and following instructions, helping children develop key personal and communication skills in a calm, nurturing setting.

Learning at Forest School is about so much more than time spent outdoors. It helps children to:

• Build resilience and confidence by taking manageable risks in a safe, supervised environment.

• Develop independence and problem-solving skills through hands-on experiences.

• Strengthen teamwork and communication by working collaboratively on shared challenges.

• Foster emotional wellbeing, mindfulness, and a sense of calm through connection with nature.

• Grow curiosity and creativity by exploring the natural world and discovering how things work.

At Godmanchester Community Academy, our Forest School is a core part of our vision to develop well-rounded, independent learners. Whether they’re lighting a campfire, balancing on a rope, building a den, or quietly observing nature, children are learning essential life skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Forest School truly captures what makes our school special — a place where every child can explore, experiment, and learn through adventure.