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Forest School information, policies and procedures handbook

September 2018

Karen Johnstone

Head Teacher – Johnshaven School

To be read by all adult leaders, volunteers and visitors attending Forest School sessions.

Last review: November 2018

We are committed to reviewing our policy and good practice annually.

Contents

1. Introduction to Forest School2. Provision, Communication And Environmental Impact3. Forest School Rules4. Staff and Helpers at Forest School5. Health and Safety, Risk Management6. Insurance 7. First Aid8. Emergency procedures (a)9. Emergency procedures (b)10.Daily Operating Procedure 11.Toileting Policy12.Parental Consent and Confidentiality 13.Clothing Policy14.Tool Handling Policy15.Fire Policy16.Food and Eating Policy17.Tree Climbing Policy18.Child Protection19.Lost Or Missing Child Policy20.Equal Opportunities policy21.Behaviour 22.Roles and Responsibilities of Adults and Children23.Roles and Responsibilities of Adults and Children (cont) 24.Monitoring and assessment25.Appendices



An Introduction to Forest Schools

‘an inspirational process that offers children, young people and adults regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence through hands-on learning in a woodland environment’

O’Brien, L and Murray, R (2008)

What is Forest Schools?

A Forest Schools setting is a place where children can develop collaborative working skills, including communication, leadership, risk assessment and practical experiences. These skills equip children well for life, learning and, eventually, work. However, children are also given the opportunity to connect with nature, raising their awareness of the importance of local ecology and the need to be responsible citizens in our rapidly changing world. Through the planning of experiences from across the curriculum children are taught the importance of the natural resources around them and why they should care for, respect and protect them.

Children have a right to learn in a variety of different, safe environments where they are free to express themselves, take ownership of their learning and explore a classroom very different to the one they are used to being in. Forest Schools ensures learning is practical, fun and enjoyable so that children develop a positive attitude towards school and learning, and with that, confidence and improved self-worth.

Provision

A Forest School session should last a minimum of 2 hours per week and run for at least a term or equivalent over the school year. That is the minimal expectation for pupils at Johnshaven.

A diverse range of child-led activities aim to encourage independent learners to explore their own interests and to attempt new ideas. Some activities might include:

Den building

Campfire building & lighting

Cooking on an open fire

Investigating & studying wildlife

Learning to use tools such as knives and saws

Creative bush craft activities

Problem solving activities



The SiteGrid RefNO 79411 66990

Our site is located on Railway Walk, behind the school premises at the above grid reference and is marked on the map by

The site is owned by Aberdeenshire Council

Access to the site is gained via the entrances at either end. The school has a risk assessment for crossing Back Road to gain access to the site.

Environmental Impact

There is a woodland management plan in place, which details how we minimise the impact of lessons on the woodland site. We aim to ensure that other members of the community will continue to enjoy using the site by leaving a minimal trace of activities once complete.

Forest School Rules

Learning in a Forest School will always carry an element of risk, but we measure the level of risk against the benefit of being outdoors and carrying out rich learning experiences. Children have the right to learn in a safe, happy and positive environment whether this takes place indoors or outdoors.

Prior to starting a programme of learning, children are involved with the setting and understanding of Forest School rules to ensure their safety. We will discuss all aspects of the risk assessments of the site to ensure clarity in expectation of behaviour during a lesson. At the beginning of every session thereafter, a quick recap of the rules is reinforced by the children.

For some activities, such as tool use or fire lighting, a zero-tolerance statement is shared with all pupils and strictly adhered to. It is important that the adults involved try to help children understand the importance of these rules, and support children in understanding that Forest School will become too dangerous if these rules aren’t followed, which may mean that a Forest School session has to end.



Staffing of Forest Schools Session

Karen Johnstone – Forest School Leader

FS Outdoor leader level 8Outdoor Paediatric First AidREHIS Elementary Food Hygiene

Forest School sessions are planned with an adult to child ratio of at least 1:4. Additional adult support will be required for children who have disability or additional support needs.

When using tools, the adult to child ratio will change (see section on tool policies). Benefit risk assessments, carried out in advance of activities taking place, identify any risk of harm associated with the activity, and measuring it against the benefits that children will enjoy by taking part in the activity. The level of risk, age of children and additional support needs are all considered within the Benefit Risk Assessment. Risks are measured from high to low and strategies are determined to ensure the risk is minimised.

All staff and helpers supporting the Forest School leader are PVG checked. Pupil Support Staff are first aid trained. All staff and adults involved in Forest Schools, are required to sign and date a form to show that they have read the risk assessments associated with each session and understand how to comply with the safety guidelines.

Health and Safety.

The health and safety of all children and adults during a Forest Schools session is paramount. The

following policies are written to ensure children and adults experience rich outdoor play within a

challenging environment. For each activity planned, during a session, there is a robust risk benefit

assessment written which weighs up the risks associated with the activity with the benefits of

engaging in the activity.

The Forest School Leader is responsible for the safe running of Forest Schools therefore, has a

duty of care for the children. However all adults are required to take all reasonable steps to ensure

children are safe. Before a session commences all staff involved in the sessions have access to

lesson plans and risk assessments associated with the activities.



Site Risk Assessment

A site risk assessment has been written collegiately with members of the Community Council. The

site risk assessment is approved by Mrs Johnstone (Head Teacher) and updated as and when

there are any permanent or seasonal changes to the site which are not recorded on the daily site

assessment.

Daily site risk assessment will be carried out by Mrs Johnstone before the site is used to ensure

that there are no changes to the site which could cause injury or harm. Following the daily site risk

assessment any measures to make the site safe will be carried out (e.g. remove any hazards,

mark off any unsafe areas). At the same time Mrs Johnstone will consider specific circumstances

which make it appropriate to cancel a Forest School Session.

InsuranceNo insurance is held by Aberdeenshire Education & Children’s Service that automatically compensates school pupils for personal accident, whether an accident occurs within or outwith the boundary of the school. Insurance of this nature, e.g. personal accident, life, private medical, is seen as a parental responsibility. It is your responsibility as a parent to insure your child for personal accident or death if you feel this is appropriate.

Aberdeenshire Education & Children’s Services does hold third party liability insurance, which indemnifies the Council against claims from third parties, e.g. parents on behalf of pupils who have suffered injury, illness, loss or damage arising from the negligence of the Council or its employees. In these circumstances all claims are handled on behalf of the Council by external Insurers and Claim Handlers and compensation is dealt with on a strictly legal liability basis. The Authority has a duty of care in respect of pupils in its charge during school hours and as such has to take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of all primary and = pupils. It may be necessary to provide supervision for primary children on school premises before or after normal school hours if their early arrival or late departure is due to the timing of official school transport. This general duty of care continues if the children go home by way of school transport and ends when the child gets off the bus, at which point the parents then become responsible. Parents may wish to consider their own insurance arrangements in terms of appropriate extensions to their household insurance or arranging their own separate covers.

Off site Insurance

Forest School sessions will take place off site in Railway Walk:

Johnshaven School - Forest School is held on the grounds of Railway Walk behind Johnshaven. It is covered by Aberdeenshire Councils School’s liability insurance which is currently provided by AIG Europe Limited. Insurance Policy number: 0010627652. Forest School session are logged on Aberdeenshire Council’s Evolve site, which is an online system for the planning, approval and management of educational visits.

Aberdeenshire Council has in place a School Excursion Insurance policy, whereby both pupils and teachers are covered for offsite activities / trips both within the UK and abroad (offsite meaning off the school premises). The policy covers medical expenses, loss of baggage, cancellation, curtailment and change of itinerary (along with other sundry benefits) etc. for worldwide trips and adventurous activities (including winter sports). If personal items such as Last review: November 2018


jewellery, phones/tablets, watches etc. are taken on a forest chool session, then these are taken at an individual’s own risk and are not covered under the policy, unless damage or loss is caused by an Aberdeenshire Council employee. Should a parent or carer want such items to be covered then this would need to be arranged by parents/carers independently of the school. In addition to this policy, Aberdeenshire Council also holds Public Liability insurance cover for any injury or loss incurred by individuals due to the negligence of the Council or its employees (including volunteers).

First Aid

Mrs Johnstone is trained in Outdoor Paediatric First Aid, a course tailor made for Forest School emergencies. Our Pupil Support Staff have also completed first aid training. A first aid kit and full emergency bag is always on site. Access to the emergency bag is permitted only to the Forest School Leader and Pupil Support Assistants not to volunteers, visitors or children. The first aid kit is maintained and audited by the Forest School Leader.

In addition to kits, our medical information relating to each child and/or specific care plans are annually updated and shared with Pupil Support Staff. Staff will be advised of any specific medical information they should be aware of. Mrs Johnstone will also ensure a mobile phone and walkie talkies are available in the area during each session.

Emergency First Aid Procedures

In the event of an emergency the following will happen;

1. An emergency whistle is blown 2. Supporting adults muster children at the log circle and await further instructions. They will

keep children calm and, if need be, distract them with games.3. Forest School Leader will assess situation and remove any hazards.

First Aid Procedure A - Situation assessed as able to treat casualty with First Aid

First Aid Procedure B - Situation assessed as unable to treat alone with First Aid



http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiF5NfT_qzfAhUDzIUKHZvtDvsQjRx6BAgBEAU&url=http://www.clker.com/clipart-white-first-aid-cross-with-text.html&psig=AOvVaw0ZeIN4ZCW7SMm0WlGb_22z&ust=1545346542481531

First Aid Procedure A - Situation assessed as able to treat casualty with First Aid

First Aid Procedure B - Situation assessed as unable to treat alone with First Aid



Forest School Leader treats the casualty.

Pupil Support Assistant brings emergency bag, supports first aider and keeps the casualty calm.

Child needs to go home or needs further non-urgent treatment.

Child is able to carry on session – forest school leader monitors child. Session resumes and children revise risk assessment to prevent any further accidents.

Parents/carers contacted and informed of accident and treatment. Accident record completed by Forest School leader and sent home with child. Risk assessments reviewed accordingly.

Forest School Leader treats the child.

Pupil Support Assistant leads children safely to indoor classroom and completes headcount. Keep children calm and play circle time games.Informs admin staff to call parents.

Phone 999 using mobile carried onsite Forest School Leader and Pupil

Support await ambulance – stay on phone to emergency services. Pupil Support opens gates for Ambulance. On arrival of ambulance if parents have not arrived Forest School Leader accompanies pupil.

Admin staff completes Evolve online incident log and Forest School Incident Book, sign and date.

Daily Operating Procedures.

Prior to the session a daily site risk assessment of the area ensures the site is safe. Complete necessary amendments to make safe.

Create a plan for the session. Brief staff and volunteers on the structure of the session and their responsibilities. Activity risk assessments are shared with all staff and volunteers attending the session, to

ensure that they are aware of any measures in place to control risk. All tools will be checked before use by the Forest School Leader, and remain in locked

storage until required, following the tool policy procedure. Prior to leaving the school grounds a headcount is completed and ratios confirmed. The children will change into outdoor clothing/waterproofs and appropriate footwear. At beginning of each session the Forest School Leader will go over the same risk

assessment routine to ensure they are aware of potential risks and how to avoid them.

During the session ALL adults are responsible for on-going risk assessments. Regular head counts are carried out. If a child is unaccounted for then the missing child procedure is followed. All adults should follow the roles given at the briefing keeping in mind the purpose for the high adult to child ratio. Children not following the risk assessment control measures will be regulated to ensure safety according to the behaviour risk assessment.

After the session

At the end of the session children are called to the seating area using the Forest School bird whistle.

Children will work together to return resources to storage safely. A head count will take place. A reflection session or game will take place, sometimes followed by a song. Children will be lead back to school to change out of waterproofs. Another headcount will

take place once he children return to school. Parent volunteers, staff and children will gather up resources and take them back to the

locked storage. The Forest School Leader will use a check list to ensure everything is returned safely. Should any tools/resources be missing they will go and check the area.

Evaluation for next session – Pupil Support Assistants join the Forest School leader to provide their observational notes. Planning will be based on the observations or according to the children’s needs, for the next session.



Cancellation Policy.

Weather conditions

......‘there is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing!’Billy

Connolly

Children are advised to dress warmly and we have a bank of waterproofs and wellies for those who do not come to school with appropriate clothing.

There are some occasions where extreme weather may mean that planned sessions have to be cancelled as it may not be safe or practical to continue:

High winds of 25mph or more determined by the met office online or severe weather reports sent by Aberdeenshire Council.

In the case of extreme temperature determined by a met office amber weather warning. In the case of extreme cold, below 0° a session may be cancelled or be made shorter and

activities will be planned to ensure children are kept moving.

Staff ratiosA session will need to be cancelled due to staff illness or volunteers not attending if the absence compromises the adult to child ratios. If a staff member or volunteer is unable to attend a session for any reason they should inform the forest school leader ASAP.

The forest school leader will give as much warning to parents and carers as possible. In the case of a cancellation, an indoor nature skills related lesson, or an outdoor learning session in the playground, away from trees, may go ahead.

Clothing policy

Johnshaven School keeps spare clothing in their wet room and we are building a bank of spare wellies. Children may be provided with waterproof trousers to protect themselves and clothing from the elements. There is also a small selection of wellies, coats, socks and gloves should the children not have any. However, for their own comfort children are encouraged to provide their own extra layers in winter. As a responsible person, the Forest School leader has the right to exclude any child they think is inappropriately dressed for Forest school activities.

Some possible items the children could wear: Winter Vest or T-shirt Long sleeved top Hooded top / fleece or thick jumper Waterproof jacket Thick socks (thermal or two pairs of thin ones) Trousers Wellington boots Hat, gloves and scarf. Sunhat



Pupils are also responsible for providing and applying their own sunscreen themselves in line with the usual school policy. If insect repellent is required the usual ‘administration of medicines’ procedure will be followed.

Toileting Policy.

Children will be encouraged to use the toilet before heading up to the woodland site. This will be to avoid too many trips during the session and because of having to take off all the waterproofs again! Should a child need to go to the toilet during a session they will be escorted to school by a Pupil Support Assistant (PSA). The forest school leader will be informed before the PSA leaves the site. Tool use will be stopped during toilet visits due to the change in adult to child ratios.

Food and eating Policy

There is a strict no eating rule, unless an adult is preparing and cooking food, during a forest school session. When children are ready they will participate in simple cooking on the fire activities which include; toasting marshmallows. As skills develop, this will include cooking further meat and vegetable dishes such as hot dogs or foil packages. Wild food is not carried out as an activity to avoid confusion amongst children between what is safe and unsafe to eat. There is always a staff member present with food hygiene training, when food is being handled and prepared.

Food handling guidelines are followed in accordance with Aberdeenshire REHIS Elementary Food Handling course, which covers: food preparation, transport and storage; handling, cooking and eating food, handwashing and clearing away and cleaning up.

Tree Climbing Policy

Purpose This policy aims to set out guidelines for safe tree climbing, in terms of pedagogy and safety.

Scope This policy is relevant to all staff and pupils.

Why is tree climbing important?



The ethos of Forest Schools education places an emphasis on experiential learning and use of the outdoors. Giving children the opportunity to set their own limits regarding physical movement in a safe environment with supportive adults lets them develop confidence within their own body and an understanding of their capabilities.

Tree climbing is an ideal opportunity to allow children to learn to manage and assess risk. It also provides children with an opportunity to genuinely overcome fear – a valuable skill that they will require in learning, life and work.

In modern society tree climbing is an activity often frowned upon as being too dangerous. However, in a Forest School setting, play is seen as children’s work and the forest is an ideal environment that facilitates real play.

Risks

As with any climbing on playground equipment, climbing trees can entail significant risks, resulting in injury or death. Factors increasing risks associated with tree climbing include: Climbing above hard surfaces such as stone paths and fences Climbing in areas out of sight of a supervising adult Taking ropes or other equipment up a tree Lack of education for children about tree-climbing risks Fighting or dangerous play at height Lack of awareness among staff regarding safe play Climbing on weak branches (i.e. thinner than pupil’s thigh)Measures undertaken to address risks

Tree climbing is restricted to one manageable area, determined through risk assessment, to maximise visibility for supervising adults and minimise risks of falling onto unsafe areas. This will be reviewed from time to time.

Risks will be minimised by regularly reviewing the education of safe tree climbing, good supervision and clear rules.

At break times a minimum of 2 adults will supervise play areas where tree climbing is permitted.

Clear rules regarding outdoor play are provided for all staff to enforce. Children wearing hoods must tuck the hood in before climbing. Supervising adults may exercise their judgment to intervene or remove children from tree

climbing if they deem it appropriate to do so. Tree climbing is NOT allowed in high winds or wet conditions. Before allowing children to climb, trees should be checked for loose or rotten branches, as

well as the ground surrounding the tree for hazards/sharp objects and then removed. Children are ONLY allowed to climb up to 1.5 metres in height which will be depicted by a

yellow flag. Adults should note that tree climbing should be carried out with extra caution when children

are wearing wellies.

Tool Handling Policy

Tool usage



Children will not be using tools until they are ready; emotionally and physically. Specific tool policies are in place for each tool that may be used within Forest Schools detailing: ratios for tool usage, maintenance, storage and risk assessment. Tool use is initially modelled by the Forest School Leader to children and adults. All Adults participating must receive basic training on the safe use of tools before being allowed to use them with children.

Children are taught three basic rules and they are reinforced at the beginning of each session.

Ask an adult before you take a tool from the tool area. You must make sure you choose a safe working area with nobody near your blood bubble Sit in a secure position to ensure you are steady.

Fire policy

Fires will only be lit by a Forest School Leader following this safety policy when the children are ready emotionally and physically.

The Forest School leader will take into account wind direction, combustible materials nearby/over-hanging branches and soil type, before lighting a fire.

The risk assessment will take into account safety (clothing and hair), safe sitting, safe fire management and safe fire extinguishing.

A School Fire Action plan will be followed in emergency.

Parental Consent and Confidentiality

At Johnshaven School we aim through our confidentiality policy to ensure that staff, parents and pupils are aware of the school’s confidentiality policy and procedures and are aware of their responsibilities in relation to it. Any confidential information regarding children/adults is followed in the same procedure as in the school setting.

Medical information for each child is obtained at the beginning of the school year from the parents/carers and is kept in locked storage, in the school’s main office with restricted access. Where necessary medication will be taken on site.



The Forest School leader will include a summarised list of specific medical needs for individual children (e.g. Asthma, Epilepsy, allergies). At the start of the school year parents/carers are provided with information outlining the ethos of Forest School and proposed activities. They are required to sign a consent form to allow their child to participate in Forest Schools. (See appendix) On the consent form as a cautionary measure parents are reminded to advise us if there are any further medical reasons or phobias that could affect their child’s well-being and experience of Forest Schools. The consent forms are kept in individual files in locked storage once medical information has been summarised onto the Forest School Leaders Form. All information about individual children is private although specific medical information that could affect a child’s well-being and safety at Forest Schools is shared with Forest School staff that have a need to know, to ensure the best care and safety for children in our care. This information is transferred to Mackie, once transition is complete. Should a child leave the school it is destroyed once the child begins their new school.

A summary of medical information and any medication required is kept in the Forest School Emergency bag at each session. Access to the emergency bag is permitted ONLY to the Forest School Leader and other teaching assistants NOT to volunteers, visitors or children. In between sessions this medical information is kept in locked storage. Emergency contact information is kept within the school office and can be obtained quickly via radio or dashing into school.

Safeguarding Children.

The purpose of Johnshaven School’s Child Protection policy is to ensure every pupil who attends our school is safe and protected from harm. All staff receive annual training and volunteers are asked to read our Child Protection policy, located in the school reception area, which will give clear directions about the expected behaviour and our legal responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children at our school.

It is the responsibility of every member of staff and volunteer to our school to ensure that they carry out the requirements of this procedure and, at all times, work in a way that will safeguard and promote the welfare of all of the pupils at this school. When new staff, volunteers or regular visitors join our school they will be informed of the safeguarding arrangements in place. They will be given a copy of our school’s Child Protection policy and told who our Child Protection Co-ordinator is. They will also be provided with the recording form, given information on how to complete it and who to pass it to.

Every new member of staff or volunteer will have an induction period that will include essential safeguarding information. This programme will include basic safeguarding information relating to signs and symptoms of abuse, how to manage a disclosure from a child, how to record and issues of confidentiality. The induction will also remind staff and volunteers of their responsibility to safeguard all children at our school and the remit of the role of the S Child Protection Co-ordinator.

Safeguarding at Forest SchoolsLast review: November 2018


Through the long-term process of Forest Schools, we aim to build trust and meaningful relationships between the adults and the children. Therefore, the nature of Forest Schools means that disclosures are more likely. Any volunteer or member of staff who finds themselves with children telling them something which concerns them should follow these steps;

Listen, do not interrupt especially if the child is talking freely, If questions are needed to clarify understanding, they should be framed in an open manner,

in order to not lead the child in any way. Remember that you must not promise to keep a secret. You must report orally to the designated senior person immediately. All concerns about a child or young person should be reported without delay and recorded

in writing using the concern sheet found in the Child Protection Policy.

Safeguarding Adults.

Guidance about acceptable conduct and safe practice will be given to all staff and volunteers during induction. These are sensible steps that every adult should take in their daily conduct with children. All staff will have access to and be expected to know our school’s Code of Conduct and policy for positive handling.

There will be occasion when some form of physical contact is inevitable, for example if a child has an accident or is hurt or is in a situation of danger to themselves or others around them. However, at all times the agreed policy for safe restraint must be adhered to. A list of staff that have accessed CALMS training is kept by the Headteacher.

At Forest Schools if staff, visitors, volunteers or parent helpers are working with children alone they will, wherever possible, be visible to the Forest School Leader. Adults are asked to ensure they spread out in the Forest School area but ensure that they can clearly see another adult when possible.

All visitors or volunteers helping in the Forest School sessions are checked by the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) membership scheme which is managed and delivered by Disclosure Scotland. It helps makes sure people whose behaviour makes them unsuitable to work with children can't do 'regulated work' with these vulnerable groups.

Missing Child Policy

Children are taught the sound of an owl whistle which is used to call them back throughout the session.

Boundaries are established with the children at the beginning of a session and children are taught the rule of asking an adult if they wish to go beyond the boundary. In Forest Schools boundaries begin as smaller areas, marked by flag sticks, until trust can be developed between the adults and the children and boundaries widened. Children are involved in the risk management process of establishing boundaries and safe areas to go.



https://www.mygov.scot/pvg-scheme/types-of-work-covered-by-pvg/

The only access into the school is via the main entrance door for toilet access during Forest Schools.

Headcounts - At the beginning, during a session and at the end headcounts take place. The number of children and adults participating, can be found at the top of the daily risk assessment where the ratio of adults to children has been calculated for the session. It is the responsibility of all adults participating to ensure they are aware of the headcount for the session and to be involved in the monitoring of this.

Should a child go missing:

In the event a child becoming lost while at forest school, the forest school leader will put into practice the following procedures. These ensure that a systematic approach to find the child is taken and consideration is given to the levels of risk to the child.

In the event that a child is lost, we will ensure a search is made for the child as soon as possible, parents and authorities are notified at the appropriate stage, and a high level of care is maintained to other children while procedures are followed.

We will check the register to confirm the child came to forest school. A quick search of surrounding areas will take place.

While the initial search is made, the leader will make enquiries of all adults to establish the last sighting and time, clothes that the child was wearing, and the mental state of the child (happy, upset etc.).

Contact will be made with school to ascertain that the child has not returned to the building.

The Forest School Leader will then telephone the police and report the situation and follow their advice.

The parent or carer will be contacted.

The activities for the remaining children will continue as normal and staff not involved in the search will carry on with tasks where a change of ratios permit.

Equal Opportunities

Forest schools is a long term process with an aim to promote good relations between people. The high adult to child ratios in forest school allows time to build meaningful and effective relationships consisting of genuineness, trust, acceptance and empathy. Through a range of activities we develop trust between adults and children as well as children with other children. We aim in Forest Schools to create an all equal environment with a sense of community and belonging to make children feel safe, secure and valued. Adults within the Forest School environment are in control of this dialogue, ensuring that the messages we communicate both verbal and non verbal help young people to feel respected and valued. The United Nations Convention Rights of the Child (UNCRC 1989) article 12 and 13 recognises the competences of children and their views should be listened to and respected. If children recognise they are a valued member of the community with an



important contribution to make, then it becomes reality when your thoughts and views are both sought after and respected.

Johnshaven School values all of its pupils and recognises the importance of equality of opportunity. It aims to achieve this by ensuring the operation of fair and equitable practices that take account of the diversity of groups and individuals. Equality is regarded as an issue for all pupils, who must adhere to, and can expect, certain standards of behaviour.

The school will promote every child’s right to equal treatment in accordance with legislation and the United Nations Charter of the Rights of the Child and will provide an environment free of prejudice and discrimination. The forest school leader will be responsible for ensuring that this is understood and adhered to by all pupils of the school. For further information please refer to the Equality Guidance.

Whilst any person can be affected by unfair treatment, certain social and cultural influences may lead to groups or individuals being disadvantaged for reasons relating to one or more of the protected characteristics which are: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, sex, sexual orientation, religion or belief. Discrimination on these grounds is viewed as unacceptable and is often unlawful. The school aims to advise employees as to the standards of conduct that will be expected of them, and that they may expect from other employees.

Discriminatory treatment on the above grounds is seen as potentially harmful to both pupils and the school. The forest school leader will endeavour to protect all pupils from such treatment, by their peers. This policy seeks to prevent harassment, bullying, inequality of opportunity in teaching and learning.

In Forest Schools we aim to build an inclusive ethos by;

• Using reflection – talking about feelings, emotions. Teaching children to become emotionally literate and aware of feelings, becoming aware of who we are.

• Setting up opportunities for children to work together; developing social skills, sharing resources, trying new activities.

• Discussing and sharing historical cultures and beliefs through a range of stories and activities.

• Ensuring that activities and resources are accessible for all.

• Ensuring that the area is accessible for all users.

• Allowing the children to choose to take their learning in a way that is appropriate and individual to them. Giving them time and space to do this.

Behaviour

We are committed to establishing a learning environment in which group members develop self-discipline and self-esteem as they take increasing responsibility for themselves and their actions,



and as they consider the well-being of others. We encourage positive behaviour and learning through;

Building relationships and trust; It is vital for children to trust adults if the experience is to be a positive one. Adult’s model positive behaviour and create a positive site atmosphere where everybody is treated as equals.

Consistent boundaries give children security, and enable them to know what to expect. A good way is to involve and engage the children in risk assessment and setting the rules and boundaries. Rules and boundaries are reinforced at the beginning of each session.

Setting up opportunities for children to learn to work together; developing social skills, sharing resources, negotiation and co-operation

Being in the natural environment, We encourage responsibility in caring for others and for the environment. Forest School naturally creates a calming environment, green is thought to be a calming colour.

Setting up activities enabling children to achieve.

At Forest Schools we aim to build children’s confidence and self-esteem through feedback and own sense of achievement, through the completion of activities. Adults at Forest Schools facilitate learning to ensure that children achieve. Achieving a task will lead to a positive learning experience and children recognising a sense of personal competence. Praise is given for recognising skills and by asking how it made the child feel. We will share items made (with permission of the children) with the rest of the group to celebrate individual success.

Sanctions If a child’s behaviour becomes unsafe to himself or others then that behaviour needs to be stopped, and every measure taken to prevent a situation escalating. If needed the child will be removed from the forest school area.

Restorative practice is used to discuss incidents once all is calm. This may need to take place during the start of the next session. Incidents will be recorded in the forest school incident book and the class teacher informed (for information only). The behaviour is dealt with in the forest school setting and no further sanctions carried out.

If repeated unsafe behaviour then further discussions occur to establish the next course of action.

Bullying;

Bullying is an action taken by one or more person with the deliberate intention of hurting another person, either physically or emotionally and where the relationship involves an imbalance of power. Bullying is not an isolated incident but continual or repetitive. At Forest Schools we aim to create a positive learning environment and develop relationships between children. The school does not tolerate bullying of any kind and has an anti-bullying policy, please refer to this. All cases of bullying are recorded and reported to parents/carers.



Roles and Responsibilities of Forest School Leader

To plan and lead all Forest School activities.

• To ensure that planned activities and resources available are within the capabilities of the children taking part, amending plans to provide an inclusive curriculum enabling the children to achieve.

• To take responsibility for discipline during Forest School sessions (see Behaviour Policy) • To have an up to date First Aid qualification.

• To ensure that medication (e.g. epipens/inhalers) and appropriate First Aid is available at every session.

• To ensure that all participants are adequately dressed for the weather.

• To ensure that adults participating understand their role in promoting emotional intelligence, self esteem and learning at Forest Schools.

• To carry out daily risk assessments as described in the Risk Assessment Policy

• To ensure all Forest School policies are regularly reviewed and that review is informed by observations and developing knowledge of the Forest School setting

Roles and Responsibilities of Children

To take personal responsibility for their own safety as well as the safety of others. To listen to and follow safety information given to them. To bring appropriate clothing and footwear to Forest School sessions

Assessment

In order to develop the Forest School program and to ensure good practice is maintained, evaluation of activities will be undertaken.

At all Forest School sessions, observations on children are discussed during or after a session and recorded. At least one member of staff from the class is involved in the session, this enables the Forest School Leader to gain insight into changes between usual classroom behaviour and that of Forest Schools.

The evidence collected, in the form of notes and photographs, of children’s learning is collated primarily to plan for future sessions and to develop the children’s progression in different areas. Periodically the children’s Forest School learning journeys will be updated. However due to the nature of forest school observations’, these need to be carried out as subtly as possible (children behave differently when being observed.) Interaction and support for the group should always



come before evidence collecting. The learning journey of their forest school experience will be entered into the Personal Learning Profile each term. It can be used for reflection with children as a record of personal development and achievements. Following each session; The Forest School leader will write a reflection/evaluation of the session and plan accordingly for the next session based on the children’s interests and learning in order to develop their skills and learning further.

Data we hold and what we do with it.

Education authorities and the Scottish Government collected data about pupils on paper forms for many years. We now work together with schools to transfer data electronically through the ScotXed programme. This has two functions: acting as a ‘hub’ for supporting data exchange within the education system in Scotland and the analysis of data for statistical purposes within the Scottish Government itself.

Aberdeenshire Council use a system called SEEMIS which is used in all local authorities in Scotland and is subject to independent scrutiny to ensure that it is a secure environment for holding such data. Our schools update the data held in the system when they have an education update to make to a pupil’s record or when they receive advice from a parent or guardian either through the Annual Data Check exercise or when they are made aware of a change of circumstances at any other time in the year.

Comments, Compliments & ComplaintsTo reflect our commitment to working with you, it is imperative that if you have any concerns these are shared and discussed with us as a school. We work hard to make sure you feel listened to as parents or carers, and find many difficulties can be easily resolved through the opportunity for direct discussion. However if you are dissatisfied about our action or lack of action, or about the standard of service provided by us, you can submit a complaint.

To explain our complaints service and how the process works please go to:

http://publications.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/dataset/072f6c0d-955a-4f4c-a228-568e30884391/resource/52439609-98b5-45eb-b1e6-0d418371ba27/download/full-complaints-procedure-customerv6.pdf

Where complainants continue to be dissatisfied with a stage 2 response, complaints can be referred to the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman. Further information and guidance can be found at:

http://aberdeenshire.gov.uk/contact-us/have-your-say/have-your-say-guide/



Johnshaven Primary School

Seaview Terrace

Johnshaven

Montrose

DD10 0HF

Head Teacher: Karen Johnstone

Tel: 01561 362224

Email: [email protected]

Date: Last review: November 2018


mailto:[email protected]

Dear Parents and Carers,

Please find enclosed, my Forest Schools handbook containing all policies and procedures required to carry out Forest School sessions safely. I would request that you read the handbook to ensure that you agree with the policies and procedures in place to ensure all children enjoy rich outdoor learning experiences.

I am more than happy to discuss any part of the handbook in more detail but do request that all families return the tear off slip once the handbook has been read.

Kindest Regards

Karen Johnstone

Head Teacher

Johnshaven School

I have read the Forest School Handbook and agreed the policies and procedures in place.

Name:______________________________________________

Child(s) name: ______________________________________

Tool Policy

Johnshaven School aims to keep all children safe. During forest school sessions children may use the following tools:

• Bow Saw

• Hand drill

• Clamps

• Wooden mallets

• Fixed blade knife

• Loppers

• Bill hook

Tools are used with children with a minimum ratio of 1:4 supervision.

The Forest School Leader and Forest School Assistant are responsible for overseeing safe use and maintenance of

all tools.



A list of the items stored in each box is attached to each tool box and used as check lists to ensure that all items are

returned safely at the end of each session.

The Tool Boxes contains sharp tools such as knives and axes is kept locked at all times when not in use.

The Forest School Leader and Forest School Assistant wear steel toe-capped boots for all Forest School sessions.

Appropriate gloves and hats are also available as Personal Protection Equipment when needed.

Activity Risk/Benefit Assessments are completed for all activities involving the use of tools.

All pupils are taught about, use the term and implement the ‘Blood Bubble’ when using tools. The Blood Bubble is the

area that you can reach with the tool you are using. We aim to avoid others’ Blood Bubble, however if it is entered the

tool user must stop using their tool.

Fire Policy

The following procedures will be followed to ensure safe fire practice by all.

A fire blanket is kept on site at the main assembly area and a bucket of water must be to hand.

A fire circle of 1.5metres must be marked around any fire using logs, seating or other visible markings.

Wind conditions must be considered before lighting a fire, especially in dry conditions to prevent the spread of fire. If

FS leader deems the conditions to be too windy fires must be extinguished with water immediately.

Only fire steels will be used to light a fire.

The fire circle must not be crossed; pupils and staff must walk around the outside of the seating.

The fire circle must be kept clear of any trip hazards, including bags and lunch boxes.

Two pupils and one adult are permitted to enter the fire circle at the same time.

The fire circle must be monitored by an adult at all times.



If the fire circle cannot be monitored by an adult the fire must be extinguished with the use of water until smoke

ceases.

All fires to be extinguished at the end of the day using water until smoke ceases.

Kelly Kettles

If they are to be used, the above fire procedures apply.

Must be placed on a flat surface that has been cleared of dry materials such as leaf litter or dry grass.



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