Forest School

Our forest school programme is a much-loved part of school life.

Forest School

Our Forest School programme offers children the opportunity to learn, explore and grow in a natural outdoor environment. Just a mile from school, we are fortunate to have access to a beautiful woodland area where children visit at least once a term, often more frequently during the summer months.

During their time in the forest, children take part in a wide range of hands-on, practical activities. They build dens, learn how to safely start and manage a fire, try their hand at whittling, and work together in team games. They also get creative by making bird boxes and other natural crafts. Even our youngest learners in Reception are introduced to fire-making in a safe and supervised way, helping them develop an early understanding of fire safety.

The woodland space is full of exciting features, including a treehouse and swings, giving children plenty of opportunities for imaginative play and adventure. A particular highlight for many is cooking over the fire, whether it’s toasting marshmallows or enjoying hot dogs together.

Forest School is about much more than outdoor activities. It plays a key role in developing children’s confidence, resilience and courage as they try new things, take managed risks and solve problems independently and as part of a team.

Above all, it’s an experience our children truly love. They return from each visit with smiles on their faces, new skills to be proud of, and lasting memories of time spent learning in the great outdoors.

  • Dog photo
    Dog photo
  • Dog photo
    Dog photo
  • Dog photo
    Dog photo
  • Dog photo
    Dog photo
  • Dog photo
    Dog photo
  • Dog photo
    Dog photo

Discover more

If you would like to know more about life at IGS, or to book an in-person visit, contact us now.

Discover more

If you would like to know more about life at IGS, or to book an in-person visit, contact us now.

Principal: Mr C J Gray (tel: 07984 619739)


Chairman of School Board: Prof James Tooley
(tel: 07976 403113)

IGS: Durham,
Former Methodist Church,
Esh Winning,
DH7 9QF

Tel: 0191 323 0056

IGS: Durham is operated by The Education Partnership (UK) Ltd.

Principal: Mr C J Gray (tel: 07984 619739)


Chairman of School Board:
Prof James Tooley
(tel: 07976 403113)

IGS: Durham,
Former Methodist Church,
Esh Winning,
DH7 9QF

Tel: 0191 323 0056

IGS: Durham is operated by The Education Partnership (UK) Ltd.