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:
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.
Natural Environment: The heart of Forest School is the woodland or natural environment. This provides a rich and inspiring setting for learning.
Holistic Development: Forest School aims to develop the whole child, including physical, emotional, social, and cognitive skills.
Supported Risk-Taking: Children are encouraged to take age-appropriate risks, such as climbing trees or crossing streams, under the guidance of trained practitioners.
Qualified Practitioners: Forest School is led by qualified practitioners who have undergone specific training to deliver this unique approach.
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.
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