Forest School

Forest School Ethos

The role of Forest School is to provide opportunities within a forest setting for holistic development of learners that promotes and facilitates connectivity with the natural world through hands on learning experiences, ultimately building individual’s confidence and self-esteem, cooperation and communication skills.

 

History of Forest School

The concept originates in Denmark, originally aimed at pre-school children, where it was found that children who had attended forest school then arrived at school with strong social and communication skills, having the ability to work in groups effectively, generally had high self-esteem and a confidence in their own abilities. These foundations helped them to raise their academic achievements.

 

Forest School encourages children to:

  •         develop personal and social skills
  •         work through practical problems and challenges
  •         use tools to create, build or manage
  •         discover how they learn best
  •         pursue knowledge that interests them
  •         learn how to manage failures  build confidence in decision making and evaluating risk
  •         develop practical skills
  •         understand the benefits of a balanced and healthy lifestyle
  •       explore connections between humans, wildlife and the earth
  •         regularly experience achievement and success
  •         reflect on learning and experiences
  •         develop their language and communication skills
  •         improve physical motor skills
  •         become more motivated
  •         improve their concentration skills

 

Activities at Forest School

Activities for Forest Schools are diverse and numerous but it should be reminded that we are trying to create independent learners who are inspired to try out their own ideas, explore their own interests and to attempt new ideas.

 

Some activities might include:

  •          Shelter building
  •         Fire lighting
  •         Tool use (saw, axe, bush-craft knives)
  •         Studying wildlife
  •         Playing team and group games
  •         Sensory activities
  •         Tracking games
  •         Cooking on an open fire
  •         Using a Kelly Kettle
  •         Rope and string work
  •         Art and sculpture work
  •         Woodland and traditional craft
  •         Developing stories and drama, and meeting imaginary characters
  •         Physical movement activities

 

 

Clothing List

For every session the children should bring with them:

  •        Long trousers or waterproof trousers
  •        Walking boots, wellington boots or trainers
  •        T-shirt/Long sleeved t-shirt
  •        Warm jumper
  •        Waterproof coat

We can provide all children with waterproof trousers and waterproof coat if necessary.

All children are expected to participate at forest school.