Editor's choice June 2010

Balsall Heathan June 2010

Seeing The Wood

For The Trees

A one off taster session for a forest school initiative, which took place last year during a summer playscheme, has become a runaway success. Forest School leader Gareth Burt who devised the scheme now runs the project for several schools in the area. A qualified teacher with a passion for the outdoors, Gareth has built up the scheme whilst at the same time gaining the qualifications necessary to run the programme. “At St. Paul’s I work with schools on recycling and gardening projects, educating children about animals on the farm and the wonders of the world around us so Forest Schools was a natural progression. I love leading Forest Schools and we are really lucky to have our own little forest so close to the farm. Forest Schools will be changing next year, which will be exciting. I’m sure that all the children involved will remember what they have learned for a long time!”

Forest Schools

What is a Forest School? The benefits of learning in an outdoor environment have been recognised and researched for many years. Sadly in the UK many have lost sight of how the outdoors can be inspiring and a valuable learning environment. More recently there has been a move towards re-engaging with outdoor space and a growing understanding of the effects nature has on supporting holistic development and positive mental and physical health for all ages. Forest schools also serve to increase the understanding and appreciation of the environment and preservation of woodland areas.

Activities

The activities are designed to encourage self-esteem, confidence and knowledge. Through focusing on success and recognising growth and achievement in all areas the activities are tailored to suit the individual learner’s style and interests. By developing social skills and making friends, the programme, which takes place over a six week block, enables the learners to develop skills that will last them a lifetime. Run at lunchtimes and after school the activities include making shelters and dens, learning how to use tools safely, fire lighting and camp fire cooking, making art works from natural materials, exploring the natural world and playing games.