Forest Schools

Forest School den

Forest Schools were originally a Scandinavian initiative, and involve regular visits (weekly or fortnightly) to a local area of woodland, allowing children and young people to develop a connection and appreciation of their local environment.

Sessions are planned in conjunction with the curriculum, and there is always a high ratio of adults to pupils.

The Forest School approach works for a wide range of ages including youth groups and children excluded from mainstream education, but has been especially popular with pre-school and Foundation stage children (4 and 5 year olds), allowing them freedom to learn in an exciting environment often no longer available to young children today. The child led approach means that the pupil’s own interests and enthusiasm determines how the activities develop and it is then up to the Forest School leader to encourage and deepen this understanding. Forest school allows children the time and opportunity to learn and develop at their own pace and in their own learning style.

Research suggests that regular Forest School sessions:

Builds self-confidence and self-esteem
Improves motivation and encourages co-operation
Encourages responsibility, independence and the management of risk
Improves language, communication and social skills
Improves physical motor skills
Increases understanding of the natural environment and of seasonal change
Encourages a positive attitude to learning

Download information on Forest Schools and how we can help by clicking here.

Essex Outdoors is also a ledaing player in the Essex Forest Education Initiative (FEI), helping to developi and supporti Forest Schools across the County
(See www.foresteducation.org/local_groups.php?id=165)

Duration:

Programmes can last from six 'taster' sessions (6 half days over a term) up to year-long support (up to 20 half or whole day sessions) i setting up your own Forest School.

Venue:

At woodlands close to your school/early years settings; within school grounds, or at Daws Hall and Pelham.

Offered by:

Daws Hall and Pelham

Cost:

Sessions led by qualified Forest School leaders from Essex Outdoors at £125 for half day or £200 for a whole day. There is a grant scheme operated by the Forestry Commission. Please ask for details.

Click here for enquiries

Aiming High - Click here for further information

Focus On:

Calendar of Events:

Aug 2010

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