Forest Schools

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Forest Schools
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A brief overview of Forest Schools

• Forest Schools is about children and young people
  building self esteem and independence through
  exploring and experiencing the natural world.
  Forest Schools is a long term programme delivered
  by trained practitioners within a natural
  environment (not necessarily a Forest). Each
  Forest School programme is tailored to meet the
  needs of individuals within that group and is
  continuously developed as the children/young
  people grow in confidence, skills and
  understanding.The ethos of Forest Schools
  allows learners the time and space to develop
  skills, interests and understanding through
  practical, hands-on experiences. It also allows
  practitioners to step back and observe the
  children/young people in order to then encourage
  and inspire individuals to achieve through
  careful scaffolding and facilitating.
• Norfolk County Council

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What have we done so far?

• The provision has been run as an after school
  club since June 2008.
• Over 40 children have benefited from the
  experience so far.
• The range of activities includes art/craft,
  science, problem solving and cooking.

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What next ?

• Forest School will take place within the school
  timetable.
• One afternoon per week.
• Approximately 15 children will take part in the
  programme each week.

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What do we do at Forest School?

• Here is a list of some of the activities we have
  done so far.
• Cooking on an open fire
• Fire building
• Den/shelter making
• Art/craft activities using natural materials
• Nature walks, (tree and plant identification)

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How will it run?

• Mr Graham will work with at least two other
  adults with a group of up to 15 children. This
  will also ensure that there will be a high adult
  pupil ratio.
• A group will attend for 4 consecutive weeks
  allowing children to take part in nearly two
  hours of Forest School activities each week.
• A rolling programme of activities will be put in
  place, including opportunities for seasonal
  learning.

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What are the benefits?

• Giving children an opportunity to learn outside
  of the classroom.
• Safe risk taking opportunities for children.
• Allows children to learn and play in a safe
  natural environment.
• Forest School addresses many elements of the
  Every Child Matters Agenda.
• Creates a positive impression of school life,
  especially for children who are less engaged in
  the classroom.

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What else?

• Joint staff INSET is in the process of being
  organised with the Junior School. It is hoped a
  Forest School trainer from Denmark will visit and
  deliver a course to all staff in both schools
  (Autumn 09).
• More schools are beginning to develop Forest
  Schools within their settings. It will help to
  keep the school competitive when attracting new
  pupils.

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Oh, and by the way
Its great fun!