There are 6 main principles of ‘Forest School’. They are:
- Forest School is a long-term process of regular sessions, rather than a one-off or infrequent visit; the cycle of planning, observation, adaptation and review, links each session.
- Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.
- Forest School uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for being, development and learning.
- Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
- Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
- Forest School is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.
“Children have a natural affinity towards nature. Dirt, water, plants, and small animals attract and hold children’s attention for hours, days, even a lifetime.” ~ Robin C. Moore and Herb H Wong
‘When children come into contact with nature, they reveal their true strength’ – Maria Montessori
‘In nature a child finds freedom, fantasy and privacy; a place distant from the adult world,, a separate peace.’ Richard Louv
‘Every child is born a naturalist. His eyes are open by nature, open to the glories of the stars, the beauty of the flowers and the mystery of life’. Ritu Ghatourey