Additional Considerations for a Safe and Enjoyable Forest School Experience
Risk Assessments & Risk Benefit Assessments
- The Forest School Leader performs a Daily Site Risk Assessment prior to each session to ensure the site is ready for use by children and staff.
- We have School Site Risk Benefit Assessments and Activity Risk Benefit Assessments in place.
- A typical Risk Assessment identifies hazards and introduces control methods to prevent them.
- A Risk Benefit Assessment balances risk against the benefit. If the benefits outweigh the risks, the activity is worth carrying out.
- An example is the wobbly bridge in a playground. In a factory setting, it would be dangerous, but in a playground, it introduces fun and challenges children.
Training
- There will always be at least one fully qualified Forest School Leader with a walkie-talkie to a member of staff within the school at each session and one other first-aid-trained support adult.
- Forest School sessions only take place on school grounds.
- Children are taught the rules of the Forest School and learn to manage their own risks and work within their personal physical and mental limitations.
- The Forest School Leader is fully trained in Forest School (Level 3), Emergency First Aid, Forest School First Aid, Type 1 Diabetes, Anaphylaxis, Safeguarding, and Food Safety & Hygiene (Level 2).
Behaviour
- Behaviour within the Forest School aligns with the school's current behaviour policy.
- Tools, fire, knives, etc., are used carefully and carry their own risk benefit assessments. They are taught on a one-to-one basis with the Forest School Leader or an adult supervisor.
Medical & Intolerances
- Please check that the school is aware of any up-to-date medical requirements before each term begins.
- Any food and drink intolerances need to be known before the term begins. Dandies plant-based Vegan Marshmallows are used for treats and are gluten-free, kosher, and non-GMO.
- Hay Fever: Pollen levels are high in spring and summer. We recommend seeking medical advice for children with hay fever symptoms. Antihistamines can usually manage symptoms effectively.
- Asthma: Inhalers must be checked and provided before the term begins if required.
Forest School Clothing & Kit
- Forest School clothing is vital for safety and protection from scratches, bites, and stings, and helps prevent the risk of Lyme disease.
- Long sleeves and long trousers are mandatory, even in warm weather.
- Send children with a water bottle, a bag of weather-appropriate clothes that can get dirty, and a pair of Wellington or walking boots.
- Avoid wellies with handles as they can be a hazard.
- Children without appropriate clothing will be asked to take a letter home for parents/carers.
Additional Resources
Remember:
- Forest School is a valuable learning experience that fosters a love of nature and develops essential life skills.
- By working together, we can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience for all children.
"Play brings the world to life for children.
It provides for an exploration and understanding of their abilities; helps them to learn and develop; and exposes them to the realities of the world in which they will live, which is a world not free from risk but rather one where risk is ever present."
- HSE (2012) Children's Play and Leisure: Promoting a Balanced Approach
"A balance is needed between, on the one hand, taking action to reduce the unacceptable hazards in the children's environment... and on the other hand, informing, equipping and empowering children to take the necessary precautions to enhance their own safety."
- United Nations; General Comment 17. 17th April 2013