Revel in the outdoors!

“Staff make the most of the school’s expansive and idyllic grounds.”

(Ofsted - December 2022)

At The Revel we give every child the freedom to explore and discover in a safe space as well as lead their own learning, take risks and have fun! We are blessed with a unique and extraordinary woodland site which is being transformed into a magical space for growth and self discovery by the children that use it. They own their experiences and are responsible for themselves, others and the environment which in turn helps them to engage fully in whatever it is they are most interested in by becoming part of the space rather than separate from it. This positively contributes to the whole educational experience at The Revel (Aided) Primary School.

Forest School Aims

• To support the emotional and social development of children through play and tasks in a forest environment.

• To support the physical development of children through active tasks and games.

• To support the growth of confidence and self-worth of children.

• To encourage children to develop the skills and tools to succeed and be happy.

Forest School and Spiritual Growth

As part of the Forest school practice an emphasis is made on contemplation and thanks giving.

When the children are immersed in nature it is a fantastic opportunity to find a calm and reflective space. Over time they will be introduced to some basic meditation techniques to try.

The forest School also explores the value of courage. The courage of the individual to take risks, explore and discover new things using compassion and kindness in order to grow as a human being in the natural world.

This approach is gentle, calm and offers the children a real life skill that compliments The Revel's Christian ethos.  This is further reinforced through the act of thanks giving at the end of each forest school session.

The unique site that The Revel provides is truly something to be thankful for!

Forest School Equipment

Getting muddy, putting your hands in the dirt and having freedom to explore are fundamental activities in forest school - so it’s best to be prepared!

• Water proof trousers
• Water proof Jacket
• Wellington Boots
• Fleece/warm top
• Hats/gloves
• Torch (Nov – Mar)

These items are essential. Please let us know if any help is required finding/supplying these items.

Forest School Club:

Forest Schools after school club is available to years 4, 5 and 6. Children can attend 1 or both of these sessions. Places are limited to 30 places per session. However, if demand exceeds available places then additional sessions can be explored – So BOOK NOW and register your interest.

Monday 3.30pm – 5pm = £5.00 per session payable in advance per term £60.00

Thursday 3.30pm – 5pm = £5.00 per session payable in advance per term £60.00

If your child is registered for free school meals the cost will be subsidised by 50%

Forest School Volunteering

Do you want to get involved? 1 free child place per parent helper (limited number only) If you want to be part of Forest Schools you are more than welcome come and help out – Please contact the School office for more information.

Forest Holiday School

We would like to explore the possibility of offering Forest School sessions during the school holidays – This may include single day sessions during half terms breaks and 5 day sessions during the summer break. We would like to hear from you – Please register your interest in one or any of these ideas to:

outdoorlearning@therevel.co.uk and title the email:  Forest holiday school.

Forest School Site Hire

Schools and Organisations – If you would like to bring your school/organisation to use our unique and exciting woodland site and/or are new Eco classroom - please contact the school office for more information.

Term time (6 week blocks)

Morning session         9.30am – 12pm

Afternoon session      1pm – 2.30 pm

School Holidays

Day sessions               9am – 4pm

We want Forest Schools in our school!

Are you interested in developing your own site or keen to get ideas about how to develop outdoor learning opportunities in your school? Our Outdoor Leaning Lead can come to your school for a free walk round to identify opportunities. We can offer further support through site development, Forest Schools training and consultancy sessions. Please contact outdoorlearning@therevel.co.uk For more information.

CPD Training

We can offer specific CPD in outdoor learning tailored to:

- EYFS

- ITT/ECT

- Teachers & Support Staff

- Heads/Business Mangers/Governors

- SMT

Outdoor Learning Consultancy

The Revel has been developing the school site and is excited to be using the outdoors to further enrich the educational experience it offers to our children. This  has had a profound and positive effect across the whole school. It’s this impact that we’d like to share with other schools and organisations. Initially an audit of current outdoor learning provision would take place with a walk and talk to find out what OL opportunities there are and how best to meet the wants and needs of your school.