Forest School

Here at Holy Cross Girls' Primary School we love to extend our learning to the outdoors. We are currently working with the Northern Ireland Forest School Association to become an accredited Forest School with 6 of our teachers from the Foundation Stage right through to Key Stage 2 working towards becoming Forest School Level 3 Leaders.

A Forest School is

“A child-centred inspirational learning process, that offers opportunities for holistic growth through regular sessions. It is a long-term program that supports play, exploration and supported risk taking. It develops confidence and self-esteem through learner inspired, hands-on experiences in a natural setting.”

In everyday terms this means that our children have the opportunity to use our school's wonderful outdoor spaces to experience everything from campfire cooking and den making to gardening and nature spotting with a lot more in between!

Have a look at our photos for just a taste of our Forest School sessions so far and watch this space to see how we develop our Forest School further!

Forest School Recognition

We are so proud of our wonderful staff who continue to develop their own skills for the benefit of our pupils.

We have been awarded Official Forest School status as 6 members of staff undertook training with Northern Ireland Forest Schools Association. The teachers were awarded OCN NI Level 3 in Leadership in Forest Schools. Forest Schools is now embedded across our classes from Foundation through to Key Stage 2 and have recently been award the 'Birch' plaque from the Northern Ireland Forest Schools Association.

The girls are thoroughly enjoying taking their learning outside with all our Forest School Activities. Well done to everyone!

Our Latest Forest School Activities

Autumn Forest Schools

17th Nov 2025

Ms Lagan and Mrs Boyle’s classes have been working together for Forest Schools...