The Wild Saplings Group

Wild Saplings is a new forest school group for Home Ed families with children aged 5–7 (Reception to Year 2). We offer an inclusive outdoor learning environment shaped by the six core principles of Forest School:

Long‑term learning 

Children return week after week, building confidence over time and relationships with friends. It also develops their understanding of seasonal changes, and seasonal fauna and flora. 

Sessions in a natural wooded environment

Sessions happen in the woodlands at Gatton Park, where children explore different habitats across the park. From pond dipping to visiting the horse stables, we have many different places to visit as well as our woodlands. 

Holistic development

Forest School is all about developing the whole child; from developing physical skills by balancing on a fallen branch, social skills by working with a friend to build a den, and emotional skills by learning to manage frustration when a structure collapses. As well as threading in some maths, science and literacy! 

Supported risk‑taking

Children are invited to use tools like peelers, saws and fire strikers with close adult guidance, learning how to stay safe while trying something new and exciting. 

Led by qualified practitioners

Sessions are led by a trained Forest School leader and experienced teacher who understand child development, outdoor learning, and safe practice. 

Learner‑centred processes

All activities are planned as invitations to explore – if a child becomes fascinated by insects under a log, the session may shift to exploring habitats and facts about insects. Staying curious and being flexible is key to our approach! 

Guided by these principles, each session is shaped around the children’s interests and led by an experienced teacher and Forest School practitioner.

Sessions run every Monday from 1:00pm to 3:00pm during term time and are designed as a shared experience for children and their adults — this is not a drop‑off activity. A fireside snack is included, and children are encouraged to help prepare it. We often forage around the grounds to gather ingredients, adding a sense of adventure and connection to nature.

This half term’s sessions are booked as a block of six, starting Monday 7th September: £90.00 per child or £150.00 for two siblings.