The day begins with a walk through the trees, perhaps with time for a quick swing at the playground, a whoosh down the slide, or a moment to investigate something interesting along the way. We might spot a deer wandering over from Knole Park, a squirrel darting through the branches, or simply notice how the woodland changes with the seasons.

At nine o’clock, the wooden gate opens, and familiar faces are waiting to welcome everyone in. There are cheerful hellos, stories to share, and a cuddle whenever one is needed. Coats find their pegs, wellington boots are tucked away, and the morning begins to unfold. Perhaps a story is being read, an elaborate tower is taking shape from wooden blocks, or a new game is beginning among friends. There is plenty of time to follow an idea, become absorbed in something interesting, or simply enjoy being together. And, of course, we always make time to gather for a morning snack, because all that playing and imagining takes energy!

After lunch, we pull on our wellies and head into the forest, whatever the weather. We don't simply make the best of the rain, wind, and changing seasons; we find new possibilities in them. Rain brings puddles to splash in and mud to investigate. Autumn offers acorns, conkers, and fallen leaves, while spring brings flowers, new growth, and all sorts of discoveries. There are mud kitchens, woodland creations, stories beneath the trees, and endless opportunities to build, paint, imagine, experiment, and explore. Some afternoons are full of energetic adventures; others are spent quietly watching an insect, collecting treasures, or working on a particularly important creation.

At three o’clock, we gather together on the logs beneath our forest school canopy, ready to welcome families back and share the day's adventures. There may be muddy boots, pockets full of interesting things, and plenty of stories to tell. There is always something to discover, and always time to play.