Molesey, Surrey

Flying Start Preschool has a trained Forest School teacher to plan and lead all our wonderful outdoor activities. The children are encouraged to explore, identify wildlife, make music, play group games and create with natural materials. 

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Outside play is a vital element of our daily routine, promoting physical development alongside healthy brain development. Our garden is a hive of activity with different zones for the children to learn and explore in. It is an extension of the indoor learning environments enabling the children to explore independently as well as take part in more structured activities. Every space is full of intrigue and gives the children the freedom and space they need to explore and go on their own adventures. Our mud garden (which is incredibly popular!) encourages the children to role play as well as developing their scientific knowledge about textures and mixing. We are very proud of our growing area where the children grow plants and vegetables from seeds. They help to nurture these and eventually eat the fresh produce!

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Why do children in Early Years need free access to the outside?

• Accurate assessment - Children act differently outside and therefore you may only get accurate observations when observing outside.

• Healthy body and brains - There is more space to move, fresh air, vitamin D, peace, and mindfulness all things children need to develop and grow.

• Increased Self-Esteem - Outdoor play gives children new skills; raises their self-esteem, develops their divergent thinking skills and collaborative skills. These skills are an excellent basis for classroom learning.

• Characteristics of Effective Learning –They are able to play and explore, learn actively, develop their own ideas, make links between ideas, and develop strategies for doing things.

• Awe and Wonder - There is a sense of freedom that children feel outside because they feel like they are in charge of what they do outside. There are things that children will discover outside that cannot be discovered inside sparking awe and wonder.

• Access to outside is part of the curriculum - The reasons above are why the Statutory Framework (2021) states "Providers must provide access to an outdoor area or if this is not possible that outdoor activities are planned and taken on a daily basis".