Heather Brown R.G.N, BSc(Hons), PGCE Forest School

LeaderHeartwood Education

Forest School Delivery to FEI National Standards

Forest Education Initiative

Forest Education Initiative - providing teachers with learning resources on trees, forests and forestry products

www.foresteducation.org

Forest School-Where did it start?

It is not a physical place it is a concept.

How long has it been happening in the United Kingdom?

Defining Forest School in the UK.

The use of a woodland setting all year round whenever possible.

A high ratio of adults to children.

Learning can be linked to the National Curriculum.

The freedom to explore using multiple senses.

Delivered to and adapted appropriately for all

ages from pre school to post 16.

Strong focus on the following:Safety in the outdoor environment.

Pupil led learning.

Small achievable tasks and challenges.

Emotional literacy.

Process not outcome.

Woodland management and vocational projects.

Coping strategies for stressful situations.

What is Forest School?Pre- School

Discovering the force of gravity at an early age!

What is Forest School?Primary School?

What is Forest School?Secondary School?

A marvellous opportunity for children to learn.

Liz O’Brien and Richard Murray

A participatory evaluation of forest School in England and Wales. Oct 2006

www.hmso.gov.uk

Research carried out in five forest schools across England and Wales.

Case study based data collection.

Propositions about the effect of participating in a forest school program.

Proposition

Forest school increases the self esteem and self confidence of the

individuals that take part.

Proposition

Forest school increases an individuals ability to work

co-operatively and increases their awareness of others.

Proposition

Forest school counters lack of motivation and a negative attitude to

learning.

Proposition

Forest school encourages ownership and pride in the local environment.

Proposition

Forest school encourages individuals to build a closer relationship with, and a better understanding of, the

outdoors.

Could a Forest School approach encourage and enthuse our children and

young people to improve their understanding of scientific principles, processes and

practice?

Thank you