At St. Monica School, the forest at the back of the schoolyard is more than just a patch of trees — it’s a living classroom where students immerse themselves in hands-on learning and exploration. Two exciting initiatives, the Grade 1 Forest School Program and the Grade 3 Forest Friends Club, are allowing students to connect with nature while fostering curiosity, collaboration, and creativity. From discovering local wildlife to learning how ecosystems thrive, these outdoor programs are inspiring a deeper appreciation for the natural world in young learners.
A Year in the Wild: Adventures in the Forest School Program
The Grade 1 Forest School program at St. Monica enriches students’ learning by immersing them in nature for one half-day each week. Activities are designed to spark curiosity and make learning fun, with experiences like counting leaves or storytelling. Students are encouraged to explore at their own pace, using the outdoors for physical activity and sensory engagement.
The program runs all year round, embracing all types of weather, so students learn to appreciate nature, whether they are splashing in puddles or building shelters. Each session starts with a song to greet Mother Earth and ends with a moment of gratitude for the experiences shared. This play-based approach helps students develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and teamwork, fostering a strong connection to nature and a sense of environmental responsibility. Through the Forest School Program, St. Monica inspires a love for nature and encourages students to become advocates for the environment.
Friends of the Forest: Exploring the Great Outdoors
At St. Monica, the Grade 3 students are able to enjoy a refreshing break from their regular routines through the Forest Friends Club. Meeting every Tuesday during lunch recess, it provides a unique opportunity for students to explore and connect with nature. Open to all Grade 3 students who sign up, it has quickly become a weekly highlight.
Each Tuesday, the Forest Friends explore a beautiful wooded area of the schoolyard, typically off-limits during recess. Activities include dramatic play in the mud kitchen, creating nature-inspired art, and wandering forest pathways. A wagon is filled with tools like binoculars and art supplies, encouraging each explorer to engage with nature in their own way.
One of the most exciting features of the Forest Friends Club is its year-round format, allowing students to experience nature’s changes across all seasons. This joyful space fosters a lifelong love and respect for the environment.
