LEAF stands for Learning, Exploration, Adventure and Fun. Based on the principles and ethos of Forest School, LEAF aims to nurture social development, creativity, confidence, resilience, independence and self-esteem, as well as physical and motor development and a love and respect for nature.

Micklands Primary School is fortunate to have a wonderful natural environment. The school buildings are surrounded by playing fields with margins of wildflower meadow, buzzing with insect life. The school also has a beautiful woodland, complete with bluebells in spring, mature trees, woodpeckers, badger setts, fox dens, two resident muntjac deer, and many other native species. This environment offers a myriad of opportunities and invitations for children to learn and develop in the way that suits them best, encouraging curiosity, exploration and a sense of wonder.

Taking a holistic and child-led approach to learning, children are free to explore, take risks and follow their own interests at their own pace with support from qualified Forest School Practitioners.

LEAF is part of the curriculum at Micklands and every child will have the opportunity to take part throughout the year.

Activities include nature trails and identification, den building, nature-inspired arts and crafts, mindfulness and sensory exploration, fire-lighting and cooking over the fire, woodwork using a variety of tools, litter picking and caring for our environment, and so much more!

LEAF is led by Nicky Culetto and Selina Hogarth. Nicky and Selina are both experienced Outdoor Instructors and Level 3 Forest School Leaders. Both hold enhanced DBS; Outdoor Activity First Aid Certificates; Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificates; Mental Health First Aid Certificates; and regularly attend Safeguarding training.