Forest Schools in Wiltshire
Forest School is an educational approach that emphasizes learning and personal development through regular and sustained experiences in a natural outdoor environment, typically a woodland or forest. It is child-centered, play-based, and holistic, focusing on fostering confidence, resilience, and a connection with nature while developing a range of physical, emotional, and social skills.
Key Principles of Forest School:
Child-Centered Learning:
Activities are guided by the interests, needs, and choices of the participants.
Encourages autonomy and self-directed learning.
Natural Environment:
Sessions are held in outdoor settings like woodlands, promoting exploration and connection to nature.
Children learn to care for the environment and understand ecosystems.
Holistic Development:
Forest School supports not just academic learning but also physical, emotional, social, and creative growth.
Play and Exploration:
Emphasizes play as a medium for learning.
Encourages problem-solving, creativity, and discovery through hands-on activities.
Long-Term Process:
Sessions are designed to take place regularly over an extended period, allowing skills, confidence, and relationships with the natural environment to develop.
Risk and Challenge:
Provides opportunities for children to engage in managed risk-taking, helping them develop resilience and decision-making skills.
Qualified Leaders:
Led by trained Forest School practitioners who ensure safety, adaptability, and meaningful learning.
Activities in Forest School:
Den and shelter building.
Learning bushcraft skills like fire lighting and using tools.
Nature crafts (e.g., weaving, leaf art).
Climbing, balancing, and exploring natural terrains.
Identifying plants, trees, and animals.
Mindfulness and sensory activities like listening to nature or feeling different textures.
Benefits of Forest School:
Boosts confidence and self-esteem through mastery of new skills.
Enhances social skills by fostering teamwork and cooperation.
Promotes physical health through active outdoor play.
Reduces stress and improves mental health by connecting with nature.
Encourages environmental stewardship by fostering a love for the natural world.
In Summary:
Forest School is a powerful, innovative way of learning that goes beyond the classroom to nurture the whole person. It equips participants with life skills, a deeper understanding of nature, and the ability to navigate challenges confidently.
