Forest schools is a concept imported from Scandinavia, allowing participants multifunctional outdoor play and learning opportunities. Risk awareness, skilful interaction and connections with the natural world are key concepts.
In Scandinavia, forest school settings are noticeably varied and different from one another. Activities can take place in a natural woodland or in a domestic garden. Access to nature and the outdoors is key, with no rules for the character or layout of the setting.
The curriculum is well embedded within UK early years and primary schools. Secondary and higher education facilities should also explore the many engaging inspirational forest school activities.
Leaves of Green encourage schools to use areas close to school buildings where possible. Access is easier and more conducive to winter use, the majority of the school year. Once in the forest school environs, it is important to have a generous ‘base camp’ area. This allows for communal activities, with uncongested space to interact, build, create, and enjoy the sensory open air experience.
Surfacing for general access, main paths and the base camp area should be all year-round accessible – mud free and avoiding winter wet.
For further information, see Forest School in a Nutshell 2.