Class A at VIS covers the ages 3-5, this is FS1 and FS2 in the English education system. A keystone of all the learning that we provide for these children is forest school. Here we enable children to progress their learning and development through leading their own explorations in woodlands or wild spaces. Our children engage with the natural world using all of their senses, exploring the environment and developing a deep respect for nature.
We use a secluded and peaceful setting close to Verbier where we have constructed a circular “couvert” using only natural materials for group activities and stories. We are able to use a huge area of surrounding woodland for our activities, with the couvert at the centre. Under supervision and guidance from our highly trained and qualified practitioners children are free to explore the forest and nature, playing games and completing challenges. We follow a child-centred approach, letting the children choose between adult led activities and discover their own learning opportunities.
VIS Children love the freedom and chances to explore and learn that forest school brings. Forest school is not the same as bushcraft, horticulture or outdoor education, and it is not bringing Maths and English activities outside of the classroom. What it offers children at VIS is a chance to connect with nature, develop confidence, social skills and decide their own learning journeys! We find that after just a few sessions of forest school, our children’s engagement, communication, confidence and social skills in class really improves.
Our aims at this age are to develop a lifelong love of learning and discovery, with a strong connection to the natural world. We promote and further children’s holistic development, fostering resilient, confident, creative and independent learners.