At Dumbles Forest School, we believe that nature is not just a backdrop, it's the very heart of childhood.
Our ethos is grounded in the simple but powerful idea that young children thrive and develop spectacularly when they are free to explore, discover, and play in the natural world.
We follow a child-led approach that nurtures curiosity, independence, and confidence. Every fallen leaf, muddy puddle, and bird song becomes a doorway to learning. Children are encouraged to follow their interests, ask questions and engage with the world in ways that are meaningful to them.
We value connection, to the earth, to each other and to ourselves. Our days are filled with creating artefacts in natural materials, storytelling around the fire, group adventures through the trees and quiet moments watching insects crawl. These experiences help children build emotional resilience, empathy, and a deep sense of belonging which are fundamental for later life.
Kindness, respect, and care are at the core of everything we do. We teach children to tread gently on the land, to honour the life around them and to see themselves as stewards of the environment. Whether it's helping a friend, planting a seed, or observing a worm, every act is rooted in mutual respect.
In the forest, children are free to move, to be loud or quiet, to climb or rest, to imagine or reflect. There are no walls, no fixed outcomes, just space and time to be authentically themselves. This freedom fosters self-esteem, creativity and a lifelong love of learning.
Our ethos is not just about early education, it's about laying the foundation for a life lived in harmony with the world. We believe that children who grow up in nature grow up grounded, compassionate and respectful of the world in which they live.
We embrace the cycle of the seasons as a gentle guide in our learning journey. From springtime planting to winter storytelling, each season offers unique lessons in patience, change and wonder. By experiencing the cycles of the natural world first hand, children learn to appreciate the beauty of growth, the value of rest and the wonder of transformation.
Get in touch to learn more about our forest school programmes, registration and find out how your child can join the adventure!