Forest Explorers

Come and rediscover nature

Mentored by

Out to the Woods CIC

Connect with nature

Collection links

Bicknor

Ages: 8 - 12 years

Involve Kent Free

Next date: Wednesday 22nd Oct, 13:30 – 15:30

Funded by Kent County Council

Specialist SEND provision

Forest Explorers block mentored by Out to the Woods CIC

What we'll do

Come and enjoy a tranquil day in the woods, funded by KCC this will be a fun day outdoors away from screens and the stresses of every day living You will get a chance to : -how to build a shelter -how to light a fire -how to use a tools safely to make things; -how to cook over an open fire; -how to make tools and things from wood; You can also try lots of exciting things like: -plant printing -bug hunting -bird watching -creating a bug hotel or just chill round the fire or relax in a hammock! Children will need to bring a packed lunch and drink - we will provide water and snacks.

send accessibility checklist

1:1 care

2:1 care

Qualified to administer medication

Epilepsy trained

Secure environment

Accessible toilet

Assist with personal care and toileting

Hoist and changing bench

Sensory or quiet spaces

Makaton trained

PECS trained

More information available on request

Contact the Mentor to discuss your specific needs regarding this list item.

Please note:

It is the responsibility of the booker to satisfy themselves about the adequacy of the the measures provided above. This platform is merely an introducer and does not verify the items listed.

About your mentor

Out to the Woods CIC

Connect with nature

I am a firm believer in the Forest School ethos and I want to reconnect people to nature. I am a qualified primary school teacher (20 years+) and Level 3 Forest School leader (2 years). Having taught in a classroom for over 20 years - it's refreshing to get outside and give children the freedom (within boundaries) to explore and discover nature. I trained with Earthcraft UK during 2020 and have witnessed the restorative effects of forest school on participants. Getting outdoors is important for our physical and mental wellbeing - there is ample evidence to support the benefits of forest school including research by the Forestry Commission, Professor Richardson of the University of Derby and many other academics. "Forest School is an inspirational process that offers ALL learners regular opportunities to achieve, develop confidence and self-esteem, through hands on learning experiences in a local woodland or natural environment with trees.” Forest School is a specialised approach that sits within and compliments the wider context of outdoor and woodland learning - each session. Once children start attending forest school, they will not want to stop. There is so much to discover and learn and a key element is that it is participant led so if your child shows a keen interest in learning more about mini beasts, trees or birds then I will plan sessions to incorporate their interests. I will also provide opportunities to learn how to use safely cook over a fire and use tools to make crafts out of wood. Given the current climate crisis, it is vital that children understand the importance of woodlands in storing carbon and for supporting biodiversity. There will be opportunities to learn about the flora and fauna in the woodland and as we are in an ancient woodland, to learn more about ancient woodland indicators. Out to the Woods CIC is in a unique position because we are set within an ancient woodland within the beautiful Kent Area for Outstanding Natural Beauty - the woodland is owned by The Cromarty Trust and was specifically bought to ensure that it remains a commiunity woodland. "Every child in every country is owed the teaching of natural history, to be introduced to the awe and wonder of the natural world, and to appreciate how it contributes to our lives" Professor Dasgupta, 2021

What to bring

You will need drinks and snacks for the session. Medication - if needed and permission Suitable clothing/ footwear - see terms and conditions

Learning aims

Aim 1

To experience being out in nature

Aim 3

To meet new people

Aim 2

To learn new skills

Aim 4

To support physical and mental health and well being

Parking

Parking on site is limited. During pick up and drop off times it will get busy so we politely request that you do not remain on site longer than necessary. If you do need to stay nearby then you may wish to park in the small layby just ahead of the woodlands or at Bicknor church.

Pricing information

Ticket namePriceInformation

Ticket nameInvolve Kent

Price£0

Information-

LEARNER REFLECTIONS0 reflections

Where we'll be

near Bicknor Lane, Bicknor, Kent, ME17 1QP

WHAT’S PROVIDED

Drinks

Equipment

Safety

Enhanced DBS

Basic DBS

Risk Assessment

Public Liability Insurance

Safeguarding Training

First Aid Training

First Aid Kit

Please note

Please note, it is the responsibility of the booker to satisfy themselves about the adequacy of the safety measures. This platform is merely an introducer and does not verify the items listed here.

Cancellation Policy

Free bookings do not require refunds but as places are limited, please cancel if you cannot attend so that your place can be offered to someone else.

My experience consists of a leisure activity, on a specific date(s), and therefore the 14-day ‘cooling off period’ under the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 does not apply.