A school's expanding Forest School programme is demonstrating how outdoor learning can enhance children's wellbeing while bringing the curriculum to life.
Overton CE Primary School welcomed a visit on Tuesday, July 7 from Juliet Henderson, county councillor for the Candovers, Oakley and Overton and Hampshire County Council’s executive member for education.
Cllr Henderson spent time exploring the school’s Forest School provision, which was established in September last year.
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Cllr Henderson said: "I haven’t seen a school with a comparable area like this. You have so much space."
During her visit, she joined Year 1 pupils for an afternoon of outdoor learning in the school’s woodland, which included den building and fire lighting.
She praised the children’s enthusiasm and perseverance, particularly during the fire-lighting activity.
Cllr Henderson said it was "wonderful to see" the pride and excitement the children showed when they finally succeeded.
The school, set on a 10.5-acre site, has developed a programme that allows every child to take part in Forest School for half a term each year.
This gives pupils the chance to experience nature, learn through play and develop new skills as the seasons change.
Fiona Wyeth, headteacher at Overton CE Primary School, said: "Our amazing 10.5-acre site is a tremendous resource for our children, but it also represents a significant cost in maintaining the large grassed areas and ensuring that our woodland is managed appropriately and sustainably."
During the visit, Ms Wyeth highlighted the support of the school’s PTA, whose fundraising efforts funded a large tarpaulin shelter for the woodland area.
The new structure will provide all-weather outdoor learning space.
Cllr Henderson also joined the pupils for their end-of-session circle time, where children reflect on what they enjoyed and learned.
She was later shown around the wider school grounds, including the recently completed trim trail, outdoor amphitheatre and climbing equipment for older pupils.
Cllr Henderson also took the opportunity to thank Ms Wyeth ahead of her upcoming retirement, recognising more than 20 years of service to the school.
She said: "I would like to thank Mrs Wyeth for all she has done for the school community over the last two decades.
"Her dedication to the education and wellbeing of pupils is so apparent.
"She has created a wonderful legacy for the future."
The visit highlighted the school’s commitment to learning outside the classroom and its focus on supporting pupils’ wellbeing, confidence and resilience.
