What is a Forest School?

Welcome to Our Forest School 

We are proud to provide magical spaces where children embark on a journey of learning, growth, and adventure in a safe, natural environment. At Jack and Gill, we embrace our responsibility to protect the environment while nurturing this special place for future generations.

Forest School is much more than simply being outdoors. Led by qualified Forest School Leaders and trained staff, our programmes follow a structured and accredited process. Children learn through consistent outdoor play over time — an approach proven to boost confidence, risk awareness, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Through hands-on experiences with tools, fire-lighting, den-building, and identifying trees, birds, and animal tracks, children absorb knowledge almost without realising.

Creative activities such as weaving, painting, and storytelling enrich these experiences, ensuring that every area of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is covered. Inspired by the ideas of psychologist Jean Piaget, we believe children thrive when given long stretches of uninterrupted play and exploration.

Our woodland is alive with possibilities: running, climbing, swinging, building, splashing, bug-hunting, and nature trails that change with the seasons. Each day brings new discoveries, a sense of freedom, and opportunities that simply can’t be replicated indoors. Outdoors, children are naturally more relaxed, motivated, and creative — engaging in play, movement, sensory exploration, and conversation, the four foundations of how young children learn best.

We embrace all weathers! With the right clothing, children can enjoy outdoor fun in almost any condition. If Norwegian forest schools thrive at -10°C, we can certainly manage here in England — only pausing when conditions become unsafe, such as during high winds.

Parents often tell us about the positive changes they notice: increased imagination, resilience, curiosity, and physical competence. Children also gain essential literacy and numeracy skills, learn to care for themselves and others, and grow in confidence as they ask questions, think critically, and share their ideas.

We explore nearby farms, smallholdings, and local projects — from blackberry picking to butterfly spotting — always weaving learning into real-life experiences. At our Rudgwick base, we continue our nature-inspired approach, ensuring the outdoors remains at the heart of every day.

At Jack and Gill, children truly thrive. Here, they connect with nature, discover their strengths, and create precious memories that last a lifetime. ✨

Come and join us — your child’s adventure awaits.