Forest School

What is the Forest School approach?

Forest School is an educational approach that takes place outdoors in a woodland or natural environment—where children learn through hands-on, experiential activities in nature.

Forest Schools originated in Scandinavia and spread to other countries, including the UK, as a way to support learning, confidence and wellbeing outside the traditional classroom.

Key features of Forest School include:

·         🌳 Regular sessions in nature (minimum of 6 x 3 hr sessions)

·          Child-led exploration and play - learners choose activities and take supported risks (like climbing, tool use, fire-making).

·         🌱 Focus on holistic development- social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.

·         🔥 Practical outdoor skills- like using real tools, building shelters, identifying plants, minibeasts and animals or cooking over a fire.

·         🤝 Trained Forest School leaders-adults who guide and support learning through following the children’s interest and scaffold their learning.

·         Leave no trace – children are encouraged to leave the area exactly how they found it and learn to respect their environment

The rationale is, that by connecting with nature, learners become more confident, resilient, independent, and environmentally aware. Research has suggested that the learning and experiences in Forest School helps to develop a child’s self esteem and contribute to good mental health.