“Above all it is the potential and character of each individual that we seek to nurture.”

It is well known that all children benefit from more time outdoors. This time aids their emotional and social development as well as their learning. It is also critical for physical health.

Outdoor learning forms a vital part of the curriculum at St Andrew’s as virtually all subjects can be taught outside. Children can experience all areas of the Foundation Stage of the National Curriculum in a fun and non-threatening way where no-one fails.

The Forest School project, a new initiative at St Andrew’s, offers a wonderful opportunity in this respect. Children can investigate and experiment with new skills in forestry such as woodcarving, cooking and shelter building. They learn how to minimise and manage risks, something that children have very little opportunity for nowadays.