What is Forest School?
Forest School started in the UK in the 1990s. It is based on the Scandinavian 'frutisliv' open air culture of mainly outdoor, child centred play.
The UK wide governing body, The Forest School Association, outlines the 6 key principles of the Forest School ethos of learning:
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It is a long term process of regular sessions.
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It takes place in a natural environment.
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It uses a range of learner centred processes.
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It aims to promote the holistic development of those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
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It offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and themselves.
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It is run by qualified Forest School practitioners.
Forest School is an inspirational process, that offers ALL learners regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands-on learning experiences in a woodland or natural environment with trees.
(Forest School Association)
