Learning Outside the Classroom

At Chidham Parochial Primary School we provide the children with many opportunities to learn out of the classroom. We have interesting and varied outdoor spaces which can be used to enhance the teaching and learning of many curriculum areas including Maths and English as well and Art and Science. Teachers recognise the value of active outdoor learning for their classes and use it to complement their classroom learning. We ensure that all these experiences are inclusive and give every child the chance to experience something new.

Chichester Harbour Conservancy

Children in Year 1 have the fantastic opportunity to work with staff from the Chichester Harbour Conservancy. These sessions are delivered in school time and make use of our beautiful costal location, children often walking to the local shore. These sessions help to inspire ongoing learning back in the classroom and help pupils build on resilience and character in an alternative setting. The often come back to class with objects they have found or made and lots to tell us all about!

Forest School

Every class at Chidham Parochial Primary School have 6 weeks of afternoon Forest School sessions led on site by a qualified Forest School leader. Each year they will build on the skills learnt the year before. Forest School is an educational experience that offers children the opportunity to develop confidence and self-esteem through a hands-on approach in a woodland environment (school site). Children are motivated by exciting and achievable activities in almost all weathers and will develop a greater understanding of the natural world. They will learn to cooperate, be inclusive of every child and work with peers and adults and develop strategies to take risks within the boundaries of safety. Through regular Forest School sessions, we aim for children to become more self-aware, resilient and empathetic towards others and the environment. Children will be encouraged to identify and manage emotions independently and take ownership of their learning, motivating them to ‘have a go’ and learn from their mistakes. Den building, digging, insect hunts, tool use and tree identification are just some of the activities the children take part in. Each academic year, children will have their session in a different season, allowing them to experience the seasonal changes through their Forest School journey.

 Click here to see examples of our latest learning.