Getting ready for forest school
Starting School in Saltdean Primary this September: Your Parent’s Prep Guide Forest School
The first day of school in September is a big step for children (and parents!).
We’ve done it with all three of ours and it was different every tie. Between new routines, fresh faces, and exciting experiences, it can feel like there’s a lot to think about.
But, we can help with on checklist before they get back to school… ensuring your kiddos have what they need for forest school at school.
Who am I?
I’m Matt Coyne, of our forest school leaders here at Saltdean Primary School. I work across many year groups and last year was working with our wonderful new starters in reception, all the way up to year 6.
At Saltdean, our Forest School sessions are often a highlight of the week for many children. It gives the children the chance to explore nature, build resilience, and develop hands-on skills — all while boosting confidence and teamwork. But to get the most out of these sessions, it’s important they’re dressed for the weather (and the mud!).
I’ll never forget one particular session last year. It was the afternoon when the snow blizzard came down. It went from calm and cool to full blown buckets of rain followed by the heaviest snow we’ve seen in years. As we started to pack up, trying to avoid the worst of it, I saw one child, already head to toe in waterproofs and wellies, sliding down our muddy bank with the biggest grin on their face. Their outfit, completely brown and sodden with the greatest smile beaming out amongst the mud. They were having an absolutely blast and, being dressed for the conditions, they were happy!
Back-to-School Forest School Checklist
Here’s what we recommend having ready for September:
School Day Essentials
School uniform T-shirt and jumper
Black PE jogging bottoms
School shoes
Forest School Kit (in a separate, named bag)
Waterproof jacket or coat - warm and waterproof in winter wins!
Waterproof over-trousers (optional but highly recommended — especially in winter)
Our early years do well in those waterproof dungarees btw!
Wellington boots or sturdy outdoor shoes
Spare socks (dry feet = happy children)
Sun hat or warm hat (season dependent)
Change of shoes and a coat (for when they return indoors)
Top Tip: Label everything. Even the socks. Especially the socks.
A Note on Weather
Our sessions go ahead in all weathers (except if it is deemed unsafe to do so). That means children experience nature in all its moods — sunshine, showers, and yes, the occasional glorious muddy puddle, so to ensure your chid gets the most out of their session, please do dress them approriately.
If you have any questions, do let us know in the comments below and we’ll help as best we can.
We hope they have a great school year ahead.