We are so enthusiastic about Forest School. So much so, we have 2 members of staff who are qualified leaders and 1 undertaking their Level 3 Forest School training. This will enable us to offer sessions to more children in the future. Our Forest school sessions are currently held on Tuesday. We also have Muddy Mondays, which involves outdoor learning but is not Forest School. Both involve wellies and waterproofs to allow the children to explore and learn in a natural environment. It is a truly wonderful experience for all children and the benefits have been widely researched.
All our children learn to become more independent and their confidence grows as they achieve what they set out to do. Communication and language skills improve significantly in a Forest School environment.
Whilst all outdoor learning is incredibly beneficial for all children, there is something special about Forest School. It is important that Forest School sessions are led by a qualified leader, who will have the skills needed to support the children to benefit as much as possible from this learning environment.
A Brief History of Forest School
The Forest School is not only a physical place but also a method of learning. It is outdoors and although a few trees would be nice, they are not a necessity. Some will be sited in a wood, others in the corner of a playing field or even playground.
They originated in Scandinavia during the 1950s, where they wanted to encourage children to appreciate nature and the environment. In the UK, Early Years departments have now recognised the benefits and Forest Schools are spreading around the country. They are now widespread at many settings and schools.
What is Forest School
Having lots of fun!
Led by a qualified Forest School Leader, Forest School takes place throughout the year enabling children to experience the outdoors in all seasons and most conditions. It is not “survival training” and emphasis is put on children being comfortable – wearing appropriate clothing helps ensure this.A safe environment is provided in which the children explore their own understanding of the outdoors.
Forest School children are physically active for most of the session and so their stamina improves. A safe environment is provided in which the children explore their own understanding of the outdoors. Practitioners enable children to develop in their own unique way – each child having small achievable tasks which helps boost their self esteem and enjoyment.
Learning to use safely.
Much of the learning the child experiences comes as a result of the opportunities they have for testing their own abilities in a real life context. They learn to manage risks they encounter, giving them real life skills and encouraging independence.
What you need to bring
- Wellies – sometimes an extra pair of socks helps in cold weather
- Long trousers
- Long sleeved top or jumper
- Layers of clothing appropriate to the temperature and the season
- Waterproof coat and trousers or a waterproof all in one suit
- Winter hat or sun hat
- Gloves in winter
Some activities
- Counting, measuring, matching and comparing using natural resources
- Construction, including shelters and dens
- Tool use
- Binoculars, bug viewers and ID sheets
- Stories and roleplay
- Listening activities
- Map or picture making using natural resources
- Mud / water – painting, mark making and digging
- Ribbons and weaving
Lastly and above all, Forest School is a fun way to learn.
Making friends