Forest Schools

Forest Schools: A Holistic Approach to Outdoor Education

Forest schools are a form of outdoor education that is learner-led, holistic and long-term. They aim to foster a positive relationship between children and the natural world, as well as developing their self-confidence, resilience, problem-solving skills and well-being. Forest schools are based on six guiding principles that distinguish them from other forms of outdoor education, such as the emphasis on regular sessions over an extended period of time, the use of natural environments as the main learning space, and the promotion of self-reflection and self-regulation among learners. Forest schools have been shown to have various benefits for children of different ages and backgrounds, such as inspiring awe and wonder, extending vocabulary, preventing anxiety and depression, supporting cognitive function and relieving stress. Forest schools originated in Scandinavia and were introduced to the UK in the 1990s, where they have gained popularity and recognition ever since. The Forest School Association (FSA) is the professional body for forest school practitioners and training centres in the UK, and it aims to uphold the quality and standards of forest school provision across the country.

References:

– The Benefits of Forest School. (n.d.). Retrieved February 7, 2024, from https://www.forestschooltraining.co.uk/forest-school/the-benefits/
– Spencer-Milnes, X. (2021, January 8). Forest School: What Is It and What Are the Benefits? High Speed Training. https://www.highspeedtraining.co.uk/hub/what-is-a-forest-school/
– The Pros and Cons of Forest Schools | Landscapes 4 Learning. (n.d.). Retrieved February 7, 2024, from https://landscapes4learning.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-forest-schools/