The breakfast was a wonderful opportunity for the Rangers to show their families the place where they have spent so much time working and learning this year, while celebrating their many successes as young leaders.

 

Oscar had the honour of lighting the fire for the group, while everyone pitched in to collect firewood so that we could boil the kettle and enjoy some hot drinks together. Lakye took the lead in organising a game of hide and seek, while Eliza proudly took her guests on a tour of the many tree-climbing spots the Rangers have helped to develop.

 

Mr Strachan explained the positive impact that the inaugural group of Forest Rangers have had on outdoor learning and pupil leadership at Glade Hill, particularly through the support they have provided to our KS1 and EYFS children.

 

“Many sessions would not have been possible without their involvement. For example, getting whole classes to cook something safely on the fire during a session would be impossible for me to do on my own, but we have now successfully done this as a team numerous times."

 

“The Forest Rangers all have different interests and strengths in the woods, which makes them a great team. However, the one thing they all have in common is that they are kind and caring – and this is something that other teachers and staff have noticed too.”

 

The Forest Rangers have built up such a positive reputation that, when Mr Strachan has been unavailable to lead Forest School sessions, class teachers have been able to liaise directly with the Rangers, allowing sessions to continue successfully.

 

Although it is with some sadness that we say farewell to our 2025/26 Forest Rangers, it was clear from conversations with their friends and families that their journey with leadership and the outdoors has only just begun. We are incredibly proud of everything they have achieved and the positive impact they have had on our school community.

 

The process of selecting next year’s Forest Rangers has already begun, with our current Year 4 pupils making expressions of interest. They will have the opportunity to impress us with their practical skills when they return in September and begin Forest School as our new Marevellous Year 5s.

 

A huge thank you and well done to our outgoing Forest Rangers:

 

Lakye • Oscar • Jacob • Eliza • Dylan • Sharada • Austin • Nico

 

We are so proud of you all!

George Strachan

Outdoor Enrichment Lead and PE Specialist