POOL RULES
A No Nonsense Guide To How We Do Things At This Bathing Establishment, So There Is No Room For Doubt. We Like That.
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NO DIVING OR HEAVY PETTING
As Peter Whent points out, if you go to a public swimming pool somewhere in there you’ll see a sign fastened to the wall. It lists their code of conduct.
A clear and direct guide to what you can't get away with. Simple, clear, direct. None of this 'can you just... ' No Karen. No we really can't.
We have some hills we’re prepared to die on. Beliefs we'll defend no matter who challenges us. It's always around Forest School.
A framework for weekly programs of free play in woodland where children learn life skills, just like we used to. We call the framework our Pool Rules.
If these are not shining through in our work with the children, we aren’t doing it right. That’s how good Pool Rules work. Here they are:
1. LONG TERM
Real change doesn’t happen overnight, and neither does trust. Week after week, season after season, the woods work their magic.
One spark of confidence, one skill mastered, one story told at a time because good things take time, and great things take a little longer.
2. NATURE
Nature isn’t just the backdrop; it’s the teacher, the playground, and the therapist. Bulldozing stress markers.
No desks, no walls, just endless horizons to explore, learn, and grow. If the kids leave a little dirtier and a lot happier they've made memories they'll the grandkids.
3. HOLISTIC LEARNING
Kids don’t just learn “stuff”—they learn themselves. Head, heart, and hands all get a workout,
Whether it’s figuring out how to tie a knot, sharing a laugh, or conquering a fear. It’s not just about skills; it’s about growing whole, strong, and capable.
4. COMMUNITY [TRIBE]
No one grows alone. Every session builds connections—kids with each other, adults with kids, and everyone with nature.
This is their Tribe, their safe space to belong, contribute, and thrive. That goes for the parents too. Together is how we roll.
5. RISK
Bubble-wrapping life does no one any favours. Climbing trees, lighting fires, and making choices come with real risks—and that’s the point.
Every leap, spark, and challenge teaches them how to measure, manage, and master life’s risks. Risk isn’t scary; it’s where growth lives.
6. LEADERSHIP
Forest School Leaders don’t just teach—they coach. Trained, passionate and always muddy. They create the space where kids can be unapologetically themselves.
They guide without pushing. Stepping back so children can step up. Because great leaders grow other leaders, one session at a time.
HOW THE RULES PLAY OUT AT COMPASS
90 DAY+
PROGRAMMES
48
HECTARES OF WOODLAND
10
HOURS PER WEEK
8-10
CHILDREN IN SAME GROUP
DAILY
RISKY PLAY
6 +
TRAINED CREW PER GROUP
43
children supported
12
Trustpilot Reviews
3
Ofsted Inspections
3
Ofsted Inspections
COPYRIGHT COMPASS FOREST SCHOOL 2025