New Forest School opens at Hatton Country World!

As the pressure to understand the environment and nature and to lead a healthy life gathers pace, Hatton Children's Nursery at Hatton Country World is seeing ever more interest. Children have free all-day access to all the fun and exciting activities on Hatton's Adventure Farm, located next door to the Nursery, where they care for lambs and chicks. Swimming lessons are arranged either during or before/after the nursery sessions with Hatton's private swim school managed by Everyone Active. On Tuesday 28 May the Nursery will open a new Forest School Activity area. The area of ancient woodland which contains giant Oak trees and wildflowers, is situated next to the Nursery.
The Forest School is aimed at children aged 3 - 5 years of age to encourage them to get closer to nature and learn about bush craft. The programme is planned to take place throughout the year in all seasons and in all weathers. Although the aim is to encourage children to develop and lead their own learning, a set structure offers children the opportunity to use real tools, build dens, learn about the environment, learn how to carve and whittle wood, identify plants and learn how a fire can be lit using a flint and steel as well as toasting marshmallows and heating up hot chocolate.
Alison Deere, Nursery Owner and Manager said "'Part of our ethos at Hatton Nursery is to offer children the chance to grow up in harmony with nature. The children love playing outside, spending time with animals and exploring the Adventure Farm. After researching the benefits of a Forest School programme, it seemed an amazing way to further foster an awareness of the natural world and a fantastic way for children to learn through play''.

Johnnie Arkwright, owner of Hatton Country World said "We're delighted that the Nursery are utilising the woodland space to open a Forest School area. Not only do children have daily access to our Adventure Farm, fruit and vegetable growing patch, chickens, rabbits, lambs and guinea pigs, huge indoor soft and sensory play centre but now they can get back to nature and learn invaluable outdoor skills".

The roots of the Forest School approach originate from Scandinavia. The natural environment is regarded as an educational resource where children can learn through play, develop confidence and self-esteem whilst experiencing appropriate risk and challenges.

Hatton Children's Nursery offers day care and sessions for babies and children up to 5 years old, combining the best in care and nursery education interwoven with the adventure of Hatton Country World. The Nursery is open from Monday to Friday and from 8am - 6pm with early starts available from 7:30am. Nursery Education funding is available for eligible children aged 2 and over.
For more information please visit http://www.childrens-nursery.hattonworld.com For more information on Hatton Country World please visit http://www.hattonworld.com

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