What is Forest School?

Originating in Scandinavia, Forest School (FS) is a child-centred, inspirational model of education that promotes holistic development through free-play, exploration and supported risk taking. Child-led practical experiences are enhanced by the diversity and wonder of the natural world.

When children choose their own learning journey they are far more engaged, motivated and experience higher levels of brain activity than if they were following a set task. So at our session blocks, there are always a wide variety of resources and activities to choose from.The sense of achievement and ownership they have of their learning boosts their confidence, self-esteem, independence and happiness.

We work with children to find out their interests and tailor activities to meet these. From tool work and nature crafts to creative and risky play opportunities such as rope apparatus and tree swings: where the learning goes is only limited by kids’ imaginations! Loads of learning takes place as well as lots of fun!

Forest School (and Woodland Wakeup!) is all about creating opportunities for children to assess and take supported risks. We have risk/benefit assessments for all our activities as we understand the need to minimise any danger but also appreciate what children are set to gain by taking part. Risks are all around us in life so helping children to assess these safely at sessions can help them to weigh up risks outside of FS and to make positive choices in their lives.

The processes within FS are so much more than children simply gathering knowledge and information. Learners develop on all levels: socially, emotionally, physically, spiritually and intellectually. In the community of learning and trust which develops within each group, a safe, nurturing, non-judgemental environment develops and children are supported to try new things, learn new skills and calculate risks appropriately, all on their own terms.

To learn more about the Forest School concept in the UK, please click the link to take you to the Forest School Association website…

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Woodland Wakeup Community Interest Company: Registered Company No. 606929

07932333044

hello@woodlandwakeup.org

14B Weston Terrace, West Kilbride, North Ayrshire, KA23 9JX