- Notable Forest School Pioneers: William Barnes, Ann Browning Zerby, and Kim Tozer
- Forest School Go International in Sweden, Denmark, and the United Kingdom
- Forest School Curriculum and National Curriculum Alignment
- Benefits for Children with Special Educational Needs (SEN)
- Managing Risk: Tree Climbing as an Example
- Embracing All Weather: The Forest School Mantra
- Can you or your organization start a forest school?
- Show your Support and Become a Forest School Leader
Unlike traditional classrooms confined within four walls, forest schools offer an immersive outdoor education experience where children can explore and learn amidst the natural environment’s beauty.
Forest schools are kindergartens, preschools that focus on the overall development of children by creating a strong bond with nature and promoting outdoor education. In recent times the age groups have been expanded to include children of all ages.
Over the summer months, The Working Forest began researching forest schools with the aim of starting a local chapter as soon as possible. We thought you would be excited to learn about the unique learning tool and get started in your own communities where possible.
Notable Forest School Pioneers: William Barnes, Ann Browning Zerby, and Kim Tozer
William Barnes, Ann Browning Zerby, and Kim Tozer have made significant contributions to the development and popularity of forest schools. Let’s take a closer look at their impact:
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During the 1920s, William Barnes introduced the concept of forest kindergartens in the United States, which aimed to provide a natural and immersive learning environment for children in primary schools. This approach was well-received by practitioners and continues to be implemented to this day. His work laid the foundation for the forest school approach and outdoor education by emphasizing nature-based learning for young children in forest school sessions. Many forest schools now incorporate his teachings and are led by experienced forest school practitioners.
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In 1996, Ann Browning Zerby established one of the first forest schools in North America to provide a child-centric learning environment. The agency allowed children to spend their day exploring nature and developing skills at their own pace. Her dedication and vision created an opportunity for children to connect with nature through the forest school approach while receiving a quality education.
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Kim Tozer: Through her research on forest school pedagogy, Kim Tozer has played a key role in its growing popularity worldwide. Her work focuses on the benefits of forest school for children and how it can enhance their development and learning. Her approach has helped validate the benefits of forest schools for children and inspire educators around the globe to incorporate them into their day-to-day activities.
These are just some of the pioneers that have been instrumental in bringing about change in how we view education, with a focus on forest school sessions, reconnecting people with nature, and providing a stimulating environment for children to learn and grow. By recognizing that learning can happen beyond traditional classroom settings, forest school sessions have opened up new possibilities for children to explore and learn from their natural surroundings.
Forest School Go International in Sweden, Denmark, and the United Kingdom
Sweden, Denmark, and the United Kingdom have welcomed forest school education to their respective countries. Let’s take a closer look at how each school in these nations has embraced this unique approach to learning.
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In Sweden, “skogsmulle” forest kindergartens were introduced in the early 1950s as an alternative to traditional school. These outdoor school educational centers allow children to explore nature, learn about their environment, and develop important school skills through hands-on experiences. The concept of early childhood education in Sweden has gained popularity over the years and continues to be an integral part of school.
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Denmark has taken forest school principles a step further by extending them into primary education with a program called “udskoling.” This initiative encourages students to spend more time outdoors and incorporates nature-based activities into their daily curriculum. By integrating outdoor learning into traditional classroom settings, Danish primary schools aim to provide a holistic education that nurtures both academic and social development.
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The United Kingdom has seen significant growth in forest school provision since its introduction in the 1990s. For example the Forest School Association (FSA) does a great job promoting the concept to schools nationwide.
Forest School Curriculum and National Curriculum Alignment
The forest school curriculum is centered around child-led learning, exploration, and creativity. The school provides a holistic approach to education by incorporating outdoor experiences into the learning process. Although it is not directly aligned with the national curriculum, forest school complements various subjects such as science, art, and physical education.
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Complementary Subjects: Forest school sessions allow children to explore scientific concepts through hands-on experiences in nature. In school, students can observe plant and animal life cycles, investigate ecosystems, and develop a deeper understanding of environmental processes.
-
Artistic Expression: The creative aspect of forest school encourages children to express themselves through various art forms inspired by their outdoor surroundings. This enhances their artistic abilities at school while also fostering an appreciation for nature.
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Physical Education: Outdoor activities at forest schools promote physical fitness and motor skills development. Children at school engage in active play, tree climbing, and other physically challenging tasks that improve coordination, strength, and overall well-being.
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Social Skills: Forest schools provide opportunities for children to interact in small groups or teams during outdoor activities. This helps them develop social skills such as cooperation, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving in school.
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Emotional Resilience: Spending time outdoors in different weather conditions at forest schools teaches children resilience and adaptability. In school, students learn to embrace challenges presented by the school environment while building confidence in their own abilities.
Benefits for Children with Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Forest schools provide inclusive environments that cater to children with SEN. Here are some key advantages:
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Enhanced sensory experiences: Forest schools expose children to a wide range of sights, sounds, smells, and textures which is beneficial for children with special educational needs as it helps stimulate their senses and supports their overall development.
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Inclusive learning opportunities: Forest schools embrace the philosophy of inclusive education by providing equal opportunities for all children. Children with SEN can engage in hands-on activities, problem-solving tasks, and creative play at school that promote holistic development.
-
Physical development: Outdoor play and outdoor exploration at forest schools offers ample opportunities for physical exercise and gross motor skill development. Children can engage in various active games at school, such as climbing trees, balancing on logs, and running on uneven terrain. These activities enhance their coordination, strength, and stamina.
-
Social interaction: Forest schools encourage collaboration, teamwork, and social interaction which fosters positive relationships between school students and promotes empathy, understanding, and acceptance.
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Cost-effective early childhood education: Forest schools often provide cost-effective alternatives to traditional preschool or educational programs catering specifically to children with SEN.
Managing Risk: Tree Climbing as an Example
At forest schools, tree climbing is not just a fun activity; it also plays a crucial role in the development of children’s physical skills and confidence. Through supervised tree climbing, kids learn to assess risks and make decisions independently. Tree climbing at forest schools offers several benefits:
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Physical Skills Development: Climbing trees challenges children’s motor skills and coordination. As they navigate branches and reach new heights, they enhance their balance, agility, and strength.
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Confidence Building: Conquering the fear of heights empowers children and boosts their self-esteem. With each successful climb, they gain confidence in their abilities, encouraging them to take on new challenges.
-
Risk Assessment: Supervised tree climbing provides an excellent opportunity for children to understand the concept of risk assessment. By evaluating the potential dangers associated with each climb, they learn to make informed decisions about their actions.
-
Decision-Making Abilities: Tree climbing teaches children how to weigh different options and make choices based on their assessment of risks involved. This skill is transferable to various aspects of life where decision-making plays a vital role.
To ensure safety during tree climbing activities at forest schools:
-
Proper Equipment Usage: Children are equipped with appropriate gear such as helmets and harnesses that provide protection while allowing freedom of movement.
-
Qualified Supervision: Trained instructors closely monitor the tree climbing sessions, ensuring that safety protocols are followed at all times.
-
Controlled Environment: Forest schools create a controlled environment by carefully selecting suitable trees for climbing activities. Regular inspections are conducted to identify any potential hazards or weaknesses in the trees’ structure.
Embracing All Weather: The Forest School Mantra
Forest schools have a holistic approach to outdoor learning that includes embracing all weather conditions. Whether it’s jumping in puddles during a rainy day or building snow forts during winter, forest schools provide opportunities for children to connect with nature throughout the year.
By embracing all weather conditions, forest schools foster resilience in children. They learn that every season brings its own set of wonders and that there is something valuable to be gained from each experience. Rain or shine, wind or snow, forest school participants develop a deep appreciation for the outdoors and gain confidence in their ability to overcome challenges.
At forest school sessions, dressing appropriately for different weather conditions is emphasized. This not only prepares children to face challenges but also teaches them to learn to adapt and find joy even in challenging situations.
What are the Job Placement Rates for Graduates of Forest Schools?
The job placement rates for graduates of top forestry post-grad schools in north america vary. These schools provide specialized education and training to prepare students for careers in forest management, conservation, and research. With strong industry connections and rigorous curricula, these schools have a track record of helping graduates secure positions in government agencies, private companies, and nonprofit organizations. High-quality education combined with hands-on experience equips graduates with the necessary skills to excel in the field of forestry.
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In Sweden, “skogsmulle” forest kindergartens were introduced in the early 1950s as an alternative to traditional school. These outdoor school educational centers allow children to explore nature, learn about their environment, and develop important school skills through hands-on experiences. The concept of early childhood education in Sweden has gained popularity over the years and continues to be an integral part of school.
-
Denmark has taken forest school principles a step further by extending them into primary education with a program called “udskoling.” This initiative encourages students to spend more time outdoors and incorporates nature-based activities into their daily curriculum. By integrating outdoor learning into traditional classroom settings, Danish primary schools aim to provide a holistic education that nurtures both academic and social development.
-
The United Kingdom has seen significant growth in forest school provision since its introduction in the 1990s. For example the Forest School Association (FSA) does a great job promoting the concept to schools nationwide.
Forest School Curriculum and National Curriculum Alignment
The forest school curriculum is centered around child-led learning, exploration, and creativity. The school provides a holistic approach to education by incorporating outdoor experiences into the learning process. Although it is not directly aligned with the national curriculum, forest school complements various subjects such as science, art, and physical education.
-
Complementary Subjects: Forest school sessions allow children to explore scientific concepts through hands-on experiences in nature. In school, students can observe plant and animal life cycles, investigate ecosystems, and develop a deeper understanding of environmental processes.
-
Artistic Expression: The creative aspect of forest school encourages children to express themselves through various art forms inspired by their outdoor surroundings. This enhances their artistic abilities at school while also fostering an appreciation for nature.
-
Physical Education: Outdoor activities at forest schools promote physical fitness and motor skills development. Children at school engage in active play, tree climbing, and other physically challenging tasks that improve coordination, strength, and overall well-being.
-
Social Skills: Forest schools provide opportunities for children to interact in small groups or teams during outdoor activities. This helps them develop social skills such as cooperation, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving in school.
-
Emotional Resilience: Spending time outdoors in different weather conditions at forest schools teaches children resilience and adaptability. In school, students learn to embrace challenges presented by the school environment while building confidence in their own abilities.
Benefits for Children with Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Forest schools provide inclusive environments that cater to children with SEN. Here are some key advantages:
-
Enhanced sensory experiences: Forest schools expose children to a wide range of sights, sounds, smells, and textures which is beneficial for children with special educational needs as it helps stimulate their senses and supports their overall development.
-
Inclusive learning opportunities: Forest schools embrace the philosophy of inclusive education by providing equal opportunities for all children. Children with SEN can engage in hands-on activities, problem-solving tasks, and creative play at school that promote holistic development.
-
Physical development: Outdoor play and outdoor exploration at forest schools offers ample opportunities for physical exercise and gross motor skill development. Children can engage in various active games at school, such as climbing trees, balancing on logs, and running on uneven terrain. These activities enhance their coordination, strength, and stamina.
-
Social interaction: Forest schools encourage collaboration, teamwork, and social interaction which fosters positive relationships between school students and promotes empathy, understanding, and acceptance.
-
Cost-effective early childhood education: Forest schools often provide cost-effective alternatives to traditional preschool or educational programs catering specifically to children with SEN.
Managing Risk: Tree Climbing as an Example
At forest schools, tree climbing is not just a fun activity; it also plays a crucial role in the development of children’s physical skills and confidence. Through supervised tree climbing, kids learn to assess risks and make decisions independently. Tree climbing at forest schools offers several benefits:
-
Physical Skills Development: Climbing trees challenges children’s motor skills and coordination. As they navigate branches and reach new heights, they enhance their balance, agility, and strength.
-
Confidence Building: Conquering the fear of heights empowers children and boosts their self-esteem. With each successful climb, they gain confidence in their abilities, encouraging them to take on new challenges.
-
Risk Assessment: Supervised tree climbing provides an excellent opportunity for children to understand the concept of risk assessment. By evaluating the potential dangers associated with each climb, they learn to make informed decisions about their actions.
-
Decision-Making Abilities: Tree climbing teaches children how to weigh different options and make choices based on their assessment of risks involved. This skill is transferable to various aspects of life where decision-making plays a vital role.
To ensure safety during tree climbing activities at forest schools:
-
Proper Equipment Usage: Children are equipped with appropriate gear such as helmets and harnesses that provide protection while allowing freedom of movement.
-
Qualified Supervision: Trained instructors closely monitor the tree climbing sessions, ensuring that safety protocols are followed at all times.
-
Controlled Environment: Forest schools create a controlled environment by carefully selecting suitable trees for climbing activities. Regular inspections are conducted to identify any potential hazards or weaknesses in the trees’ structure.
Embracing All Weather: The Forest School Mantra
Forest schools have a holistic approach to outdoor learning that includes embracing all weather conditions. Whether it’s jumping in puddles during a rainy day or building snow forts during winter, forest schools provide opportunities for children to connect with nature throughout the year.
By embracing all weather conditions, forest schools foster resilience in children. They learn that every season brings its own set of wonders and that there is something valuable to be gained from each experience. Rain or shine, wind or snow, forest school participants develop a deep appreciation for the outdoors and gain confidence in their ability to overcome challenges.
At forest school sessions, dressing appropriately for different weather conditions is emphasized. This not only prepares children to face challenges but also teaches them to learn to adapt and find joy even in challenging situations.
Can you or your organization start a forest school?
Starting a forest school is an exciting opportunity to connect with nature and provide children with a unique learning experience. Many businesses happily sponsor such schools with funding or other resources. If you own a business or are looking for ways to make a difference in the community, you should think about starting a local forest school.
Here are a few ways you can get started:
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Research and understand the concept of forest schools: Read books, articles, and websites about forest schools to gain a deeper understanding of their philosophy and approach. Familiarize yourself with the benefits of outdoor education for children’s development.
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Find or create a suitable outdoor space: Look for local forests, parks, or natural areas that can serve as your forest school location. Ensure the area has diverse flora, fauna, and natural elements that can facilitate learning experiences.
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Obtain necessary permissions and permits: Contact relevant authorities or landowners to seek permission for using the chosen outdoor space. Inquire about any permits or licenses required to operate a forest school in your area.
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Develop a curriculum based on nature-based activities: Design engaging activities that encourage exploration, creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. Incorporate elements such as plant identification, animal tracking, storytelling, art projects, and sensory experiences.
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Gather essential equipment: Acquire basic supplies like first aid kits, waterproof clothing, magnifying glasses, binoculars, field guides, and nature journals. Consider additional items like tarps for shelter building or tools for woodworking activities.
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Advertise your forest school: Create flyers or use social media platforms to spread awareness about your program. Highlight the benefits of forest schools and emphasize the hands-on learning opportunities they offer.
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Enroll participants: Reach out to parents through local schools or community organizations. Organize introductory sessions where parents can learn more about your forest school program.
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Plan for safety: Establish clear safety guidelines and protocols for outdoor activities. Conduct risk assessments and ensure appropriate adult-to-child ratios during forest school sessions.
Show your Support and Become a Forest School Leader
To become a successful forest school leader, you need passion, patience, and a deep understanding of child development. It’s not just about teaching in nature; it’s about fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity in children while allowing them to freely explore their surroundings. As a leader, your role is to facilitate learning experiences that encourage resilience, problem-solving skills, and environmental stewardship.
So where do you start? Begin by immersing yourself in resources related to forest schools. Read books by experts like William Barnes or Ann Browning Zerby. Connect with other forest school leaders through online communities or attend workshops and training programs offered by organizations such as Forest School Association (FSA) or Forest Schools Canada.
Remember, becoming an effective forest school leader is a journey that requires continuous learning and growth. Embrace the challenges along the way and always keep the well-being of children at the forefront of your practice. By doing so, you’ll be making a positive impact on their lives while nurturing their connection with nature.
