What is a Forest School?
Forest School is a form of outdoor education that emphasises child-led learning. Forest school practitioners provide a non-judgmental environment that supports play exploration and supported risk taking. It is a long term process of frequent and regular sessions in a woodland or natural environment that focuses on holistic development that carries over both in school and in the home.
Principles of a Forest School
Regular Sessions
Forest School is a long-term process of regular sessions, rather than one-off or infrequent visits; the cycle of planning, observation, adaptation and review links each session.
Natural Environment
Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural environment to support the development of a lifelong relationship between the learner and the natural world.
Learner Centered
Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
Risk Management
Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
Qualified Trainers
Forest School is run by qualified Forest School practitioners, who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice
Holistic Development
Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
The Bees Knees Ethos
Much like Forest Schools, our Bee's Knees ethos is based on an educational approach that emphasises experiential and nature-based learning in outdoor settings. It is rooted in a philosophy that seeks to foster holistic development in children of all ages and physical abilities. Here are some key principles and aspects of the Bee's Knees ethos:
01
The Foundation: emphasises essential skills that underpin all learning, focusing on personal, social, and emotional well-being. Children build self-confidence, social interaction, and physical health through activities that promote independence, teamwork, and mindfulness.
02
The Pathway: nurtures crucial skills for learning and understanding the world. Through hands-on experiences, children develop communication, literacy, problem-solving, and environmental stewardship. They engage with numeracy, creative technology, and scientific inquiry, fostering curiosity and critical thinking.
03
The Horizon: expands children’s horizons, preparing them to contribute to society and explore future possibilities. Through creative arts, cultural exploration, and philosophical reflection, they build a strong sense of social responsibility, leadership, and self-awareness.
This comprehensive approach ensures that children grow into well-rounded individuals, ready to navigate both personal and academic challenges with confidence and creativity.