THE GREAT outdoors is just another classroom for the Busy Bees Pre-School in Ledbury.

Youngsters at the pre-school, in the grounds of Ledbury Primary, are now enjoying Forest School sessions, in the grounds of the school, off Longacres.

Busy Bees manager, Emma Davis said: "Forest School takes place in a woodland setting for which our natural wooded area at the rear of Busy Bees is perfect.

"The philosophy is to encourage and inspire children through positive outdoor experiences where they enjoy practical hands on activities. Sessions are led by Forest School Leaders who have undertaken extensive training enabling them to teach safe, enjoyable activities and allow the children time and space to explore and learn."

Miss Davis added: "Fay Pilliner, one of our Preschool Assistants has just completed her training and is now teaching her second block of sessions. Every Wednesday afternoon, Fay and Jodie, our Forest School Assistant, take ten of our eldest Preschool children out to Forest School where they enjoy a range of exciting activities such as whittling sticks, clay play, den building, scavenger hunts and using sticks and natural resources for constructing and creating."

Very soon, the youngsters will enjoy camp fire and even get to cook toast and beans.

"They are all very excited about that," said Miss Davis.

She added: "We look forward to extending our Forest School sessions next year to include our two year olds and children at the After School Club."