Our Ethos

At Bluebells Forest Children, we believe that children thrive when given the opportunity to explore, discover, and learn at their own pace in an environment that supports creativity, curiosity, and resilience. We are committed to providing a safe, stimulating space where children can engage with the natural world through the Forest School and Playwork principles, ensuring their physical, emotional, and cognitive development.

Core Values:

Child-Led Exploration: We honor the uniqueness of each child and provide an environment where they are encouraged to take the lead in their learning. Our children decide what and how they explore, with adults acting as guides and facilitators, not directors. We believe that this empowers children to build confidence, autonomy, and problem-solving skills.
Connection to Nature: Nature is our greatest teacher. We provide children with frequent, hands-on experiences in a natural setting, where they are free to explore, play, and learn in ways that encourage them to appreciate and respect the environment. These outdoor learning experiences help foster a sense of responsibility and a deep connection to the world around them.
Play as a Fundamental Right: Play is the most natural way for children to learn, develop, and express themselves. We understand that through free play—whether in structured or unstructured activities—children learn essential skills like cooperation, resilience, and communication. Our nursery offers a variety of open-ended play opportunities, both indoors and outdoors, allowing children to explore their ideas, create, and develop social and emotional skills.
Risk-Taking and Resilience: Taking risks in a safe environment helps children develop resilience, decision-making skills, and a positive relationship with challenges. We encourage children to test their limits, whether by climbing a tree, jumping in puddles, or navigating social dynamics. Learning to manage risks and overcome difficulties fosters confidence and self-esteem.
Holistic Development: We believe that a child’s development is not just academic but also physical, emotional, and social. Our environment nurtures every aspect of a child's growth. Through Forest School and playwork, children develop physical coordination, emotional intelligence, creativity, social skills, and an understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Inclusive and Respectful Community: Every child is unique, and we strive to create an inclusive atmosphere where all children are respected and valued for who they are. We recognize the importance of collaborative play and group activities, helping children build empathy, understanding, and friendships across different backgrounds, abilities, and personalities.
Sustaining Long-Term Relationships: We create opportunities for children to build meaningful, long-lasting relationships with their peers and the natural world. Whether it's a deep connection to the forest or a friendship forged through shared play, these relationships form the foundation for healthy emotional and social development.

Our Practice:

Outdoor Learning: Our outdoor space incorporates a woodland, river, meadow and orchard offering rich opportunities for sensory play, risk-taking, exploration, and imagination. Forest School principles inform our approach to outdoor education, ensuring that children engage with nature in a safe and developmentally appropriate manner.
Child-Initiated Play: Using the Playwork principles, we create spaces where children can initiate and lead their own play. We observe, support, and interact with them without imposing direction, ensuring that they have the freedom to make choices and discover their own interests.
Reflective Practice: Our staff engage in regular reflection and training to ensure that we remain responsive to the evolving needs of the children. We encourage reflective conversations with children about their experiences, helping them make sense of their world and enhancing their learning.
Environmental Stewardship: We model and teach sustainability and respect for the environment. Through activities such as gardening, recycling, and nature walks, children learn to care for the earth, understanding that their actions have an impact.