New Forest School opens at Hayesdown First School

THE children and parents of Hayesdown First School had a day of fun and exploration as they had a first taste of the new Forest School area that has been developed on the school site. The children searched for minibeasts, planted seeds, made potions in the mud kitchens, built shelters and cooked popcorn on the open fire. 

The school says that this is the culmination of a year of hard work bringing the school’s vision to life to have a space where children can learn outside, connect with nature and improve their wellbeing. The space has raised beds for growing fruit, vegetables and wildflowers, a newly planted woodland area, mud kitchens, sensory boards, a fire pit, covered shelter, storytelling chair, shelter building area and plenty of space to hunt for minibeasts and enjoy being outside.

Head teacher, Julia Battersby, said, “We know children flourish when they have practical, hands-on experiences outside. We want them to learn about and care for the environment, which is so important for their futures. Our Forest School will provide this opportunity and add to our already rich curriculum.”

Anita Crawley, the school’s inclusion leader and senior mental health lead, who has been at the forefront of the project added, “This project will support the wellbeing of all our pupils; seeing the children playing and exploring today has made all the hard work worthwhile.”

When the mayor of Frome, cllr Philip Campagna, cut the ribbon and declared the Forest School officially open, he commented, “This is not only a great achievement for Hayesdown First School but is also a reflection of the community spirit and ethos of Frome – where everyone pulls together to make things happen.”

A school spokesperson added, “We would like to thank those within the parent community, Frome and beyond who have so generously given their support to this project. This includes Frome Rotary Club, Somerset Gardens Trust, Mendip School, Frome (Men’s) Shed, Steve Farley, The Woodland Trust, Mr. Cornish, Richard Heath, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Hayesdown First School PTA and the many, many parents and grandparents who have given their time to help out.”