Enhanced Learning Experiences

Forest School

At Lovel End Nursery, we believe children thrive when given the chance to learn and play outdoors, whatever the weather. Led by our Forest School Leader, Mrs Cooley, the children take part in Forest School sessions twice a week at the Environmental Centre in the grounds of Chalfont St Peter Infant School.

Wrapped up in their wellies and waterproofs, they enjoy exploring the woodland, spotting wildlife, building dens, climbing, digging and learning to work together.

These outdoor adventures not only build confidence and independence, but also help develop physical strength, communication skills, and a real sense of wonder and respect for the world around them.

This term our Forest School adventures are all about the theme “Who am I?”. Each week, the children will explore different parts of themselves – from their families and feelings to their bodies, movements and strengths – all through playful outdoor learning. With the help of Frida the Fox, our Forest School mascot, the children will enjoy activities such as scavenger hunts, nature self-portraits, family nest building, bug hunts and even a woodland band!

You can read the full Autumn term Forest School curriculum and see all the exciting plans by clicking below.

View our Autumn Forest School Curriculum

Cooking

At Lovel End Nursery, we are delighted to offer cookery as an enhanced part of our pre-school experience. Cooking together gives children the chance to practise early maths skills such as counting, measuring and weighing, while also building their vocabulary as they talk through ingredients, textures and processes.

It is a wonderful way to strengthen fine motor skills and hand–eye coordination, from stirring and pouring to chopping safely with child-friendly tools. Beyond the practical skills, cooking helps to boost self-confidence as children create something they can be proud of, and it encourages positive attitudes towards food and healthy eating from an early age.

Our pre-school children enjoy cookery sessions every other Tuesday, and it’s always a highlight of their week popping over to the kitchen.

The children use the kitchen within the Year R area at Chalfont St Peter Infant School, giving them a chance to become familiar with the setting, staff and routines. This helps the transition to school feel natural and reassuring for those moving up to the Infant School and helps others get used to a school environment.

Physical Education

We place great importance on giving children a wide range of physical experiences to support their growth and development.

The children enjoy using the school hall for gym and mobility sessions, where they can practise balance, coordination and core strength, as well as the playground for outdoor play, running, climbing and riding trikes.

These opportunities help to build both fine and gross motor skills while encouraging confidence and independence.

We also enrich our PE provision with exciting ad-hoc sessions such as circus skills and martial arts, giving children the chance to try something new, challenge themselves, and discover different ways to move their bodies.