Forest Schools

Outdoor learning

"Getting outdoors gives children the opportunity to take part in activities that extend their knowledge, understanding and skills and which will lay the foundations for future learning through a combination of free and structured play. Children can experience the wonderment and excitement of the outdoor environment while establishing a healthy attitude towards an active outdoor lifestyle" (Filer  1998, p.5).

A recent report by King’s College London highlighted the significant benefits of learning in the natural environment, including: 

• Better educational attainment. 
• Development of natural science skills and environmental awareness.
• Improved health, social cohesion and attitudes to other children. 
• Better school staff morale.

Outdoor learning activities such as those that take place in school gardens, local parks, farm visits and residential centres, help make core subjects rich and relevant and get students excited about learning. Teachers also benefit from learning in the natural environment, becoming more enthusiastic about teaching bringing innovative teaching strategies to the classroom.

Forest Schools

The purpose of Forest schools are to encourage and inspire individuals of any age through positive outdoor experiences. Initially learning experiences take place within the schools grounds, to allow children to become comfortable learning outdoors in familiar surroundings. Forest school leaders allow the children to take control of learning. The children have an introductory session in the woodland, exploring the site establishing physical and behavioural boundaries. A well as safety procedures, hygiene and routines. 

Once a group are established in the woodland and routines are set up the project develops through a child led approach with opportunities for projects being taken back to the indoor setting to be continued.

Activities

Forest Schools put a lot of emphasis on the learner-led approach. Each activity follows a theme, from 'The Romans' to simply 'exploring'. Activities can depend on teamwork and communication, which develops a child's confidence and social skills. Activities such as hide and seek, shelter building and lighting fires will enhance self-esteem as well as individual skills. Tools are used in Forest Schools in a traditional woodland manner and are introduced gradually with a structured safety base that the children become familiar with. The use of tools in the outdoor environment will develop both gross and fine motor skills.  

Below is a clip looking into Stroud School and their outdoor learning. The clip was used to show 'prospective parents what happens during Forest School sessions and what sort of skills the children are acquiring'. I personally think outdoor learning is a key attribute for education, through out a child's development. From experience I know that it's not nice being stuck in the same classroom all day. Offering a change of scenery and allowing children (especially in early years) to go out and explore will keep the learner interested and result in them wanting to learn which is essential for development. 

Below is a link to an article taking from The Guardian newspaper. Its suggests that learning outside the classroom builds children's confidence and can transform their relationships with teachers, and asks the question 'how can schools be encouraged to organise more outdoor activities?'.

http://www.theguardian.com/teacher-network/2012/dec/04/outdoor-learning-school-activities

Reference List

·         Forest School Education. Available internet: 

      www.forestschools.com/what-happens-at-a-forest-school/ 

      [Date Assessed Jan 17th]

·         J, Filer (1998) Learning Through Play: Outdoor Play.

·         Natural England. Outdoor Learning in the natural environment. Available internet: http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/ourwork/enjoying/linkingpeople/learning/default.aspx 

      [Date Assessed Jan 17th]