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.

For two hours every fortnight, our Hedgehog class visit the woodland. 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.

Each child is 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.