Forest School
Our forest school adventure begins on 16th September 2021.
Forest Schools: A unique classroom in the great outdoors
WHAT IS FOREST SCHOOL?
Forest Schools is not a place, it’s a philosophy. Our Forest School involves visiting the local woodland environment at Beccles Common with the Beccles Forest School.
Forest Schools is different to 'outdoor education' because it is a long-term, sustainable approach to outdoor learning which builds confidence and independence in children through the exploration of, and experiences in the natural world. It is not just a one off outdoor activity with specific objectives in mind. It is a set of regular visits to a particular outdoor area where children develop personal, social and other skills which have been proven to enhance their learning.
WHAT IS SO SPECIAL ABOUT FOREST SCHOOLS?
Forest Schools feature a unique combination of powerful approaches to learning. These are:
- They develop a child-led approach. (Children increasingly take the lead on the activities and learning they wish to pursue.)
- They support children in developing appropriate risk management strategies.
- They include opportunities to develop and apply skills in tool use, knot tying, shelter building and other outdoor and bush-craft skills less likely to be available/ required in the classroom.
- Regular supervised experience of the outdoors can develop an informed sense of respect and appreciation for the natural world which is harder to develop in the classroom.
- They develop social skills and the ability to discuss / empathise with feelings.
- They are fun!
“Play alone is the free expression of what is in a child’s soul”
Friedrich Froebel
“Education is a natural process carried out by the child and is not acquired by listening to words but by experiences in the environment.”
Maria Montessori
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS FOR CHILDREN?
Many studies have shown the following improvements in children taking part in Forest Schools:
- Increased self-esteem and self-confidence;
- Improved social skills;
- The development of language and communication
- Improved physical motor skills;
- Improved motivation and concentration;
- Increased knowledge and understanding
- New perspectives for all involved
