Pupils at East Hoathly CE Primary and Nursery School are swapping electronic gadgets for the natural world through the launch of their fresh forest school programme.

The outdoor educational area was established on a derelict portion of the school estate that had become overgrown and abandoned, now transformed into a naturalistic learning environment.

The new facility features a waterproof shelter, an open-air hearth, round timber seating, a den-building zone, and wildlife dwellings complete with bug hotels, nesting boxes, and indigenous plant varieties.

A school spokesperson said the initiative has received enthusiastic backing from both employees and parents, who view it as a vital remedy for escalating screen exposure and passive desk-based instruction.

Teachers value watching children collaborate and communicate in such an atypical setting.

The enrichment and learning outcomes that emerge in these spaces prove truly outstanding.

The programme was led by the school’s forest school coordinator, known as Dormouse, alongside colleague Dan, with support from committed volunteers and donations from EC Forest Products and SIG roofing Lewes.

The spokesperson continued expressing thanks to guardians and relatives who freely gave their spare time to help with building work.

Acknowledgement was also given to the Community Payback Scheme run by the Probation Service, which supported the initial installation phases.

In contrast to typical playground pursuits, the forest school model adopts a prolonged educational framework.

Children, guided by an accredited leader, take part in regular outdoor sessions where they acquire abilities in handling implements safely, constructing fires, and scaling trees.

The Forest School Association notes that these activities support pupils comprehensive development.

Research indicates links to improved mental health, reduced stress indicators, and greater self-assurance and independence, according to the spokesperson.

The school describes the outdoor classroom as a place where children are not simply playing in wooded zones but rather becoming tomorrow environmental custodians.

Those wishing to visit this outstanding rural establishment offering broad possibilities can contact the school office by email at easthoathlyoffice@pioneerfederation.co.uk or by phone at 01825840247.

Places for admission remain open.