THE sun shone through the woodland trees on Saturday (18th) as dozens of children – and nearly as many adults – arrived at Copse and Loppers Forest School’s recent open afternoon. It was buzzing with excitement as families constructed dens, whittled skewers and toasted marshmallows.

Forest School practitioner and owner of Copse and Loppers, Lynn Blood, was delighted with the turnout, saying: “It was a fantastic afternoon. We had 10 families who had never visited us before, along with some of our regulars and some we’ve not seen for a while.”

Visitors travelled from as far as Bournemouth and Sherborne to join in the fun.

The mud kitchen proved extremely popular as children showed their creative sides, making mud pies and cakes and jumping in the muddy puddle.

“Children love the freedom that Forest School brings,” said Lynn. “Without the constraints of a classroom, or even a bedroom, they can achieve things beyond their imagination. It’s incredibly satisfying to see children come to life in the woodland as they learn to work together, developing their confidence and self-esteem whilst learning new practical skills.”

Copse and Loppers Forest School run Saturday clubs from 2-4pm in Woodcroft Wood, near Warminster. To book, contact Lynn at lynn@copseandloppers.vpweb.co.uk