‘In forest school, activities are provided, but rather than being adult-led, each child chooses and tailors the activity to suit them, while we observe their preferences and development. You flow with the energy of the day and follow what children want to do.’ Jane Worroll, an ex-countryside ranger and co-author of Play the Forest School Way. 

School Outdoors Dulwich is a Forest school where we give opportunities for childrento experience a holistic approach to learning in a woodland environment. This unique educational approach is designed with the children at its core and is proven to build confidence and self-esteem as well as a deeper understanding of the natural world. Forest school believes in learning from hands on experiences, this can range from outdoor play, using tools, building dens, making fires or many more outdoor activities which are both designed by the leader and instigated by the children themselves. Building a sense of independence, high self-esteem and social/communication skills are important parts of forest school however health and safety considerations are always of paramount importance.

Forest School Principles

Principle 1: Forest School is a long-term process of frequent and regular sessions in a woodland or natural environment, rather than a one-off visit. Planning, adaptation, observations and reviewing are integral elements of Forest School.

Principle 2: Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural wooded environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.

 

Principle 3: Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners

 

Principle 4: Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.

5. Forest School is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.

6. Forest School uses a range of learner-centered processes to create a community for development and learning. 

In the afternoon we will have another guided forest school activity such as gathering wood to make a fire before roasting some marshmallows or cooking bread over the fire. The children will then have time to free play climbing trees, swinging on our rope swing or hammock or playing group games in the woods. We also have a permanent mud kitchen for children to cook up delicious recipes and the occasional magic potion! 

At 4.30pm we have our hot tea in our log circle which is often something healthy and warming such as stew, pasta or curry. This gathering provides an opportunity for an afternoon circle time to show off any tool work creations, read a story or sing a song to round off our day. We will then work together to pack up our camp and head back to the Welcome Tent to meet our parents between 5.30-6pm. We will always have a chat and handover with parents to discuss their child's day before signing children out on the EY Log.

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