PGCE Students Take a Walk on the Wild side

32 PGCE students recently visited Bell Heath Study Centre to experience some of the activities that Forest School leaders carry out with young children. Kitted out in head-to-toe waterproof gear they set out in the rain to take part in a range of activities.

Morning activities included building a range of shelters for soft toy animals using materials found in the forest, the collection and identification of ‘mini beasts’, mud painting and tree climbing. Lunchtime brought the building of a camp fire and students had a welcome break making hot chocolates and toasting marshmallows on the fire.

Students felt the day really developed their understanding of outdoor learning and the benefits it can have on children who might not otherwise get to experience outdoor activities. The less conventional learning environment also gave the PGCE students the opportunity to carry out risk assessments in a realistic environment. Feedback from the students who took part included:

“It was great to be outdoors exploring, there are so many children that I can think of who would really benefit from Forest Schools”

“Great activities! A real eye-opener of how to deliver outdoor teaching”

Further information on the PGCE and full course description.