Forest School Programmes
What is Forest School?
Forest School is an inspirational educational programme originating from a Scandinavian method of Early Years education. Children and young people are taught in a "class room without walls", where they use the natural environment as a learning tool.
Recent research indicates that Forest School teaching strategies can help develop confidence; raise self-esteem, encourage independence social interaction. Children gain a greater understanding about the natural environment and how to appreciate it.
Many children benefit from and prefer the practical aspect to learning outdoors away from the confines of a traditional class room and can achieve greater levels of success.
Forest School Benefits for individuals
- Improved behaviour and motivation
- Encourages self awareness
- Builds confidence, self esteem and independence
- Improves concentration
- Children develop a greater understanding of risk
- Physical activity promotes a feeling of well being and can provide health benefits
- Forest School encourages social interaction and team building
- Sessions must be accompanied by members of staff from the school or nursery at the recommended adult to child ratio
What's great about Forest School?
- Group size is no larger than 16, unless requested
- Activities are linked to the National Curriculum
- Can be delivered as an after school club, school day trip, 6 week consecutive programme or rolling delivery throughout the year
- Children learn through play
- Activities are structured and allow time for small achievable tasks to be completed to help build confidence
- Sessions are delivered by qualified and experienced Forest School leaders
- Helps promote children's understanding, appreciation, and consideration for their natural environment
- Children acquire a deeper understanding about environmental issues locally and globally
