Forest School

Forest School Ethos Statement. 

“Forest School is an inspirational process that offers children, young people and adults regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and  self-esteem through hands on learning” Forest Education Initiative

The Forest School ethos focuses on creating a positive learning environment, tailored to suit the individual needs and learning styles that maximize the emotional, social and developmental benefits of education that help children build positive values about themselves, their learning and the environment.

Activities take place outdoors, in small groups with a high staffing ratio. The programme is long term, regular and frequent and learning is automatically enhanced as the outdoor environment naturally offers an environment that is informal, challenging, unpredictable and stimulating. This allows the participants the opportunity to test and maintain their curiosity of the world around them as they explore using multiply senses. All activities are linked to the curriculum using a holistic and participative practice.

The learning and teaching strategies used foster independence and develop language and communication skills and increase levels of physical activity and emotional wellbeing. Time is given to explore their thoughts, feelings and relationships and they are encouraged to understand, appreciate and care for the natural environment.

Opportunities are provided to take risks, make choices, find new ways of working, initiate learning, develop practical skills and become confident and capable people by giving them challenging but achievable tasks and the time to reflect on this.

Take a look around our Forest school here