At the heart of Dumbles Forest School lies the belief that nature is not just a backdrop for childhood activities but an active participant in a child’s learning. For children, play is not simply about having fun, it's a powerful tool for development, especially when it occurs in the immersive, hands-on environment of a forest school. We offer young children unique opportunities to grow and learn in ways that traditional classroom settings cannot always provide.
We emphasise the importance of social skills. Children work together in small groups to complete tasks, whether it's building a shelter, looking for bugs, or creating a group artwork from natural materials. Through these shared activities, children develop communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. They learn to listen to each other, negotiate, and cooperate to achieve a common goal. These experiences foster empathy, respect for others, and an understanding of how to work together harmoniously.

Learning through play in a forest school environment is not only fun but also profoundly beneficial for children. It allows them to develop in a holistic way, physically, emotionally, socially and cognitively, while fostering a deep connection to the natural world. This kind of learning empowers young children to become curious, confident, creative and compassionate individuals who are ready to face the challenges of the future.