Our Forest School Leader - Basia, is an active member of the Forest School Association and follows the guiding principles and codes of good practice to embrace the true ethos of Forest School.
At Forest School all learners are viewed as:
This holistic learner centred approach intertwines with the ever changing moods, awe and wonder, potential and challenges of the natural world through the seasons, to fill every Forest School session and programme with discovery and variation. Yet each programme does also share a common set of principles, aimed at ensuring that all learners experience the cumulative and lasting benefits that quality Forest School offers.
(- Forest School Association)
Ongoing research indicates that the Forest School Approach is known to raise levels of motivation for learning, helps to develop concentration, speaking and listening skills and self-esteem - skills vital for sustained and successful learning.
As part of the Forest School programme, Woodland Explorers offer...
Woodland Explorers has expertise in planning and delivering effective programmes based on the children's specific needs and interests and the settings desired outcomes. We have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the EYFS, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 National Curriculum documents and ensure that our learning activities link to them in an interesting and adventurous manner, whilst at the same time embracing the holistic nature of the Forest School approach.
We are experienced in working with children from a wide range of backgrounds, many of whom have benefitted enormously from the guided support offered whilst learning within this unique natural environment.
We also provide PPA Cover and run after school clubs to enhance the extra-curricular provision within schools.
We welcome enquiries from Schools and other organisations interested in providing a Forest School experience. Please contact us to arrange a meeting to explore the possibilities and discuss your requirements further.
The suggested featured examples of the first six sessions begin the long-term process of Forest School and highlight the planning, observation, adaptation and review cycle, which interlinks each session and supports learners to develop and embed their knowledge and understanding progressively each week.
Sackville-Ford (2019) identifies that during this time, learners familiarise themselves with the environment and learn about their place within it, enabling them to take ownership of it.
Trusting relationships are established, supported risk taking is encouraged and the foundations of achievements are being secured.
These are the building blocks on which we at Woodland Explorers facilitate learners to direct their own learning and support them in identifying their next stage of achievement and success.
Focus activities are planned in conjunction with learners and participating school staff, whilst simultaneously supporting explorative opportunities through free play to ensure that we incorporate a holistic approach based on the learners emotional and physical needs.
All learners are encouraged to share their expectations with us during the planning process, enabling us to take their individual needs into consideration, thus ensuring that all learning is unique to the groups we work with.
Please do contact us if you have any further questions relating to session learning and development.
At Woodland Explorers, we believe that Emotional Health and Well Being is central to successful life long learning.
A healthy and positive mindset enables learners to realise abilities and develop talents, effectively manage the regular stresses of life and work constructively to make a worthwhile contribution to society.
Participating in Forest School sessions will enable learners to:
We are therefore committed to:
Woodland Explorers plan and build a Forest School site according to your specifications and provide three maintenance sessions throughout the year.
Our aim is to work in conjunction with nature . We therefore use sustainably sourced wood for all our structures, in addition to a range of recycled materials.
All aspects of planting aim to reflect a biodiverse environment for flora and fauna. Learners are supported to become autonomous protectors of this unique environment, through the development of understanding of how to care effectively and appropriately for all elements on site.
A typical Forest School site is comprised of...
The benefits of Outdoor Learning are numerous and effect every element of life.
Opportunities to learn outdoors enables children to develop positive attitudes towards school, seeing an improvement in behaviour, leading to a rise in achievement.
At Woodland Explorers, we provide a range of bespoke Outdoor Learning INSET, Training and Team Building events.
We welcome enquiries from Schools and other organisations interested in exploring these possibility further.
Research has shown that active learning outdoors increases physical, mental and social health.
It decreases stress levels of all learners and supports emotional, behavioural and intellectual development.
Learners develop a sense of self, independence, confidence, creativity, decision making, problem solving skills, empathy towards others, motor skills, self-discipline and initiative - vital to living and learning competently and successfully throughout life.
Learning outdoors increases understanding of natural and human communities, leading to a personal sense of place in the world.
Learners display stronger environmental attitudes and civic behaviours, particularly poignant during this time of dramatic and alarming climate change.
Learning outdoors builds strong foundations of understanding for the next generation to take an active part in sustaining natural environments and communities.
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