PUPILS at Leavening Primary School are enjoying more of the great outdoors as part of a new learning project.

The school has achieved Forest School status which aims to encourage youngsters to explore their rural area.

Originally a Scandinavian idea, forest schools operate on the principle that children of all ages can benefit greatly from the hands on learning opportunities present in a woodland environment.

Coordinator Louise Peers, said that in an age when many children have few opportunities to be outdoors, it offered them a way to learn and experience a broad curriculum in a woodland setting, with regular visits throughout the year.

"Forest School helps to develop confidence, self esteem, communication and social skills, as well as physical skills," she added.

"They also promote a greater understanding and awareness of the natural environment and a positive attitude to learning along with a healthier lifestyles."

Mrs Peers said they also had a fantastic woodland area as part of our school site and wanted to utilize this facility.

"The pupils will use tools to make resources from natural materials, build dens and take part in outdoor cooking," she added.

"Art, maths, literacy, science,history and geography all come alive outdoors."

Mrs Peers said each child would have weekly sessions over the school year to build up their skills,

"Forest Schools aim to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners," she added.

"The children are really excited by the prospect and living in an area such as this it will be wonderful to make the most of the countryside around us."