Forest School

Outdoor education is a cornerstone of our holistic approach to learning and development. Beyond our exceptional sports provision, every child takes part in our exciting outdoor education programme.

Merchant Taylors’ Prep School_Coaching

Forest School is held in two dedicated woodland areas – one nestled near The Manor for our youngest learners, and another on the main Prep School site where older pupils explore bushcraft skills such as fire building and outdoor cooking.

As children progress through School, they enjoy a series of exciting camping adventures that build resilience and teamwork. We are also developing a dynamic outdoor education curriculum for Years 5 and 6, which will expand on Forest School foundations with thrilling new elements like orienteering and first aid.

Our commitment to outdoor learning extends across the curriculum, with pupils regularly engaging in lessons in our Eco Garden, Outdoor Theatre, and newly established Nature Reserve – ensuring that every child benefits from the inspiration and challenge of the natural world all year round.

Why Play Is So Important for Children?

Play is one of the most important ways that children learn and develop. Through play, children explore the world around them, test ideas, and develop skills that support their learning, wellbeing and relationships with others. Forest School provides:

  • Cognitive Development – Learning Through Exploration
  • Social Skills – Learning to Work with Others
  • Emotional Development – Building Confidence
  • Physical Development – Developing Strength and Coordination
  • Creativity and Imagination
  • Importance of Outdoor and Risky Play
  • Supporting Lifelong Learning

The Diverse Natural Classroom

Child-Centred, Exploration-Led Learning

Learning Through Experience

The Importance of Play, Especially Risky Play

Building Resilience and Confidence

Nurturing Environmental Awareness

Supporting Academic Success

Meet our Forest School Lead

The ‘face of the forest’, a qualified Level 3 Forest School Leader and the resident expert who leads our boys to discover opportunities in all things wild and muddy only nature can provide. Click below to find out more.

Anne Davidson

Forest School Lead

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Anne Davidson

Forest School Lead

“As Forest School Lead, I create a safe, inspiring outdoor environment where children can learn, explore and grow through hands-on experiences in nature. I believe the natural world offers endless opportunities for curiosity, creativity, and personal development. My approach is rooted in child-led learning, encouraging pupils to take risks, solve problems and build confidence at their own pace. My aim is for every child to leave Forest School feeling capable, calm, and curious, with a lasting respect for the environment.

I am a qualified Level 3 Forest School Leader, with additional Level 3 qualifications in Coastal Leadership and Learning Beyond the Classroom. My journey has been shaped by my experience as a Beaver and Cub leader, our family’s passion for surf lifesaving, and raising my own three children, seeing first-hand the positive impact nature has on development and wellbeing. I went on to establish a social enterprise supporting children and young people through outdoor learning.

I feel privileged to be part of each child’s journey. Seeing children immersed in nature, discovering, creating, and growing in confidence, is what inspires me. Outside of my role, I enjoy walking, camping, swimming, and spending time by the coast, where my passion for the ocean continues to grow.”

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