Forest School
At St Giles’, we are very fortunate to have access to a local woodland, Wiggery Wood in Gestingthorpe which we use as an outdoor classroom.
We use our Chorus Federation minibus 'Gloria' to transport the children to the woods . These sessions are led by an Essex Outdoors Forest Schools Leader. They risk assess the wood before each visit and bring activities for children to do each session. The children use real tools and natural materials to design and build shelters; they study wildlife and habitats; make pictures, jewellery, sculptures and mobiles; cook on bonfires; sing songs; climb and balance; work in groups and teams; learn and practise new skills.
Younger children are provided with a special waterproof suit to wear over the top of ‘old, warm clothes’ and wellies worn instead of school uniform on Forest School Days. Older children bring a change of clothes when it is their turn to go to the woods.
We have an amazing time at Wiggery Wood.
