Forest School: Nurturing Nature-Lovers

What is Forest School?

Forest School is more than just a day out in the woods. It's a unique educational approach that promotes child-led learning, exploration, and risk-taking in a natural setting. By immersing children in nature, Forest School fosters a deep connection with the environment and nurtures their holistic development.

The Six Core Principles of Forest School:

1. Long-Term Commitment: Forest School is a continuous process, not a one-off event. Regular sessions allow children to build a strong relationship with the natural world.

2. Natural Environment: The heart of Forest School is the woodland or natural environment. This provides a rich and inspiring setting for learning.

3. Holistic Development: Forest School aims to develop the whole child, including physical, emotional, social, and cognitive skills.

4. Supported Risk-Taking: Children are encouraged to take age-appropriate risks, such as climbing trees or crossing streams, under the guidance of trained practitioners.

5. Qualified Practitioners: Forest School is led by qualified practitioners who have undergone specific training to deliver this unique approach.

6. Learner-Centered Approach: Children are at the heart of Forest School. They are encouraged to explore, discover, and learn at their own pace.

   
   

The Benefits of Forest School:

• Improved Confidence: Spending time in nature can boost self-esteem and self-belief.

• Enhanced Social Skills: Forest School provides opportunities for children to interact with others, develop friendships, and learn to cooperate.

• Better Communication: Children can express themselves creatively through nature-based activities.

• Increased Motivation: Forest School can spark curiosity and a love of learning.

• Developed Physical Skills: Outdoor activities like climbing, balancing, and exploring help children to become physically fit and agile.

• Increased Knowledge and Understanding: Children can learn about nature, science, and history through hands-on experiences.

  
  

Becoming a Forest School Practitioner:

If you're passionate about nature and education, you can train to become a Forest School leader or practitioner. There are three levels of qualification:

• Level 1: Introduction and Volunteer

• Level 2: Assistant Training

• Level 3: Leadership Training

  
  

Want to Learn More?

• Forest School Association: https://forestschoolassociation.org/

• Forest Schools Education: https://forestschoolassociation.org/what-is-forest-school/

• What is Forest School - Video: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8b2vC-ecUuU]

• Forest School Research: https://bera-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/berj.3953

By embracing the principles and practices of Forest School, we can nurture a generation of nature-loving, confident, and resilient individuals.