Site Risk Policy Statement
Forest School takes place in the same location year-round, but the natural environment changes with the seasons, presenting different risks and challenges. Children are encouraged to take appropriate risks during sessions, which will vary depending on the child and the session. The Forest School leader is responsible for identifying and managing any dangerous hazards. Parents and carers are responsible for their children’s safety and must follow woodland safety policies at all times.
Procedure
NO PICK - NO LICK. The woodland hosts many plants, some protected and others potentially harmful. Children are taught not to pick plants to protect the environment and avoid cuts, stings, or burns.
Some woodland plants and fungi are poisonous. Children must never eat any plant or fungus unless supervised closely by the Forest School leader. Water is provided for handwashing before eating.
Sticks are important tools for play and participation. Children are taught to carry sticks safely, holding them low and trailing them behind on the ground.
Site risk assessments will take place before each Forest school session to ensure the site is safe for children to use.
There will be a clear boundary around the site, and the gate of the community woodland/gardens will be locked. For safeguarding purposes and safety precautions, the site will be closed to the public and used privately for the forest school session.