"Childhood should be a magical time, and Aston Clinton certainly offers something special in that sense, that little bit of added magic that can be found in the woods at Forest School, and in the gardens"

All children at Aston Clinton School benefit from our rich and engaging Forest School programme. Our sessions are led by fully qualified Level 3 Forest School Leaders, ensuring expert guidance, high-quality provision, and a strong focus on safety and outdoor learning.

Reception children enjoy weekly Forest School sessions throughout the year, led by our Early Years specialist. From Year 1 to Year 6, pupils take part in Forest School during the summer term, building confidence, independence, and a deep connection with the natural environment.

As children move through the school, they are introduced to age‑appropriate tools and activities, always taught with careful supervision and an emphasis on safe practice:

• Year 1 — Peelers

• Year 2 — Whittling knives

• Year 3 — Hammers and nails

• Year 4 — Billhooks

• Year 5 — Saws

• Year 6 — Axe throwing (delivered safely and responsibly by trained staff)

These progressive experiences help children develop practical skills, resilience, teamwork, and a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.

What is Forest School?

Children explore through child‑led play, storytelling, role play and hands‑on discovery of the natural world. They learn practical skills safely using a range of tools and take pride in mastering them week by week. Swings are built, bug houses investigated, dens designed, and hot chocolate and popcorn cooked over the open fire. Turn‑taking, cooperation, listening and teamwork are woven naturally into every session.

Forest School places the emphasis on the journey rather than the outcome. Children are given the emotional time and physical space for child‑led learning to flourish.

What Forest School Offers

Forest School provides regular opportunities for children to build confidence, resilience and self‑esteem through meaningful experiences in a natural environment. Children are encouraged to:

• Explore and discover at their own pace

• Experience appropriate risk and challenge

• Initiate and lead their own learning

• Celebrate regular success

• Build positive relationships with themselves, others and the natural world

• Learn practical skills using a range of tools in a safe, supported environment

• Develop independence, self‑motivation and a positive mindset

All-Year Outdoor Learning

Throughout the rest of the year children take part in outdoor learning — whatever the weather — giving children the chance to experience the changing seasons and deepen their connection with the outdoors.