The Importance of Forest School in ASSET Schools
Hazel Sacco teaches Acorns Class at Wenhaston Primary, and is a keen Forest School instructor.
The Forest School Association states that Forest School is “a child-centred inspirational learning process that offers opportunities for holistic growth through regular sessions. It’s a program that supports play, exploration and supported risk taking, develops confidence and self-esteem through hands-on experiences in a natural setting”. (The Forest School Association (FSA) 2020)
Forest school sessions are carried out by trained instructors and are undertaken in the natural environment either on the school grounds or in local woodland areas. The sessions are child-led and the children learn through their play and exploration. The sessions are long term, meaning that children carry out sessions in blocks so that they can fully benefit from their time spent outside and immerse themselves in the natural environment.
ASSET values our Forest school sessions within our schools because it allows the children to develop a sense of self belief, it nurtures them and gives them the time to learn, explore and connect with the natural environment. The holistic approach to Forest School helps children to grow in confidence which encourages them to be confident and independent learners in school. The sessions help to facilitate a nurturing environment where children can develop holistically, spiritually, physically and intellectually.
When the children learn in the natural environment, their curiosity comes alive and they begin to notice what is around them in the natural world and appreciate awe and wonder in simple things. The children feel proud of themselves when they have built the confidence to climb a tree or learn the name of a new plant, bird or creature or they have built a den for the first time.
During the sessions, children have the opportunity to listen to stories from different cultures and beliefs and link these to specific festivities or stages in nature’s yearly calendar. The children also have the opportunity to meditate or carry out a ‘sit spot’ so they can truly immerse themselves in nature and connect with the environment and seasons around them.
At Forest School, children are able to try out new skills such as whittling or den building or how to light a campfire safely using natural materials. These skills help them to understand how to use tools safely and effectively. This is an important aspect of learning as it builds confidence, independence and perseverance which can be transferred to other aspects of the children’s learning in school.
It has been well researched that spending time in the natural world has a positive impact on mental and physical health. The children love being outside and it is hoped that the skills and experiences they learn and enjoy from Forest School will be taken with them throughout their lives.
