Forest School Activities

The Forest School Leader will plan all activities with involvement from support staff. Activities will take into account the individual child’s needs, confidence and ability level. Observations and evaluations will be added to the weekly planning, tailoring sessions and aiding child development.

Tool Operating Procedure

Before tools can be used within a group or 1;1, an initial assessment needs to be made by the Forest School Leader to whether the children are ready/capable to use them in a safe manner.

All tools are to be stored in a sturdy, clip fastened container in a locked outdoor storage unit. Staff will transport the tools to and from the Forest School site.

All tools will be counted before and after each session. The tools will be kept in a designated tool base on site during the activities.

All staff and children will be made aware of the tool base and rules relating to their use. Children can only access the tools when instructed to do so and supervised by the Forest School Leader.

At the end of each session The Forest School Leader will dry, clean and check the condition of the tools. The Forest School Leader will introduce all tools on a 1:1 basis.

‘Tool talks’ will be compulsory before children handle any tools. Staff will model and insist on the 3-point safe stance when using the tools, other safe stances will be modelled if needed.

Safe working distances will be also made aware to children. Appropriate resources will be provided to support the safe use of tools e.g. chopping block, a frame.

Staff and children will all be required to wear appropriate, safe clothing when working with tools e.g. no loose clothing, no fashion gloves, hard hat when necessary, safety boots (adults only).