Cold weather hasn’t stopped learning at CCS Eld Park. Wrapped up and ready, learners have been heading outdoors to explore the woodland, noticing how winter changes the environment and how living things adapt. The chill becomes part of the experience—something to work with, not avoid.
Forest School sessions have been full of purposeful activity. Learners have been bug hunting and talking about winter ecosystems, slowing down to look closely and ask questions. Shelter building has brought teamwork into sharp focus. Plans are shared, problems solved, and structures tested, adjusted and rebuilt. Resilience shows up in small ways—sticking with a task, trying again, and accepting help when it’s needed.
There’s been plenty of movement too. Learners have supported one another on the slack line, taking turns, offering balance, and practising patience. A new giant hammock has quickly become a favourite. Learners have learned how to wrap themselves safely into a cocoon and spin, building trust in their bodies and confidence through controlled risk.
For our primary group, imaginative play has led the way. Tyres became horses, and the forest floor turned into a shared story, supporting communication and social skills through play chosen and led by the learners themselves.
Group games with the new parachute have brought laughter and cooperation, while moments of quiet—stretching and gentle meditation on the slack line—have helped learners notice their breathing and settle their minds.
Even in cold weather, the woodland offers space to learn, connect and keep moving forward.
