We are delighted to have been recognised as an official Forest School by the Northern Ireland Forest School Association (NIFSA). The school won an award to train alongside NIFSA, running Forest School sessions both in their own school grounds and at Castle Park. Miss Algie completed the Forest School Leader qualification as part of the training and says the benefits for the children in the Nursery School have been fantastic. “The children love the Forest School sessions, many children haven’t had experiences like these before; regularly playing in a Forest environment, using woodwork tools and cooking on campfires, especially at such a young age. We have seen children’s interests in nature and the world around them grow, along with the wellbeing benefits of fresh air, physical activity and connecting with nature.” Parents have also welcomed the regular inclusion of Forest School sessions in the school’s weekly timetable. “As a parent I am delighted that Bangor Central Nursery has been officially trained as a forest school. My children have had wonderful experiences through the programme, learned new skills, are excited by being surrounded by nature and generally has made them more adventurous.”
“We are delighted to be able to offer Forest School activities to each of our three classes in the Nursery School. As well as having Castle Park on our doorstep, we have plenty of mature gardens and play spaces within our Nursery School grounds. We would like to thank North Down and Ards Council for the funding to complete the award and NIFSA for the training, support and guidance in establishing our school as an official Forest School.”
