At St. Monica School, the forest behind the schoolyard became more than a patch of trees. It became a living classroom where students immersed themselves in hands-on learning and discovery. Two initiatives, the Grade 1 Forest School Program and the Grade 3 Forest Friends Club, helped students connect with nature while building curiosity, collaboration, and creativity. From spotting local wildlife to understanding how ecosystems thrive, these outdoor programs inspired a deep appreciation for the natural world.
A Year in the Wild: Adventures in the Forest School Program
The Grade 1 Forest School Program enriched students’ learning by bringing lessons to life in nature for one half-day each week. Activities were designed to spark curiosity and make learning fun, with experiences such as counting leaves, sharing stories, or observing insects. Students explored at their own pace, engaging their senses and staying active in the fresh air.
The program ran throughout the school year, in every kind of weather. Students learned to appreciate nature whether they were splashing in puddles, gathering colourful leaves, or building small shelters. Each session began with a song to greet Mother Earth and ended with a moment of gratitude for the time spent together. This play-based approach nurtured problem-solving skills, creativity, and teamwork while fostering a strong sense of environmental responsibility. Through the Forest School Program, St. Monica inspired young learners to care for the world around them.
Friends of the Forest: Exploring the Great Outdoors
For Grade 3 students, the Forest Friends Club offered a welcome break from their regular routines. Meeting every Tuesday during lunch recess, it provided an opportunity to explore the natural world and enjoy a sense of adventure. Open to all students who signed up, the club quickly became a highlight of the week.
Each session invited students to explore the wooded area behind the school, which was typically off-limits during recess. Activities included dramatic play in the mud kitchen, creating nature-inspired art, and wandering along forest trails. A wagon filled with binoculars and art supplies encouraged exploration and creativity.
The Forest Friends Club ran throughout the seasons, allowing students to notice how the forest changed from autumn to winter to spring. This joyful experience encouraged students to appreciate the beauty of nature, develop friendships, and build a lasting connection with the environment.
