What is Forest School? Forest School is an outdoor, child-centered educational approach that encourages learning and personal development through play, exploration, and hands-on activities in natural settings, typically forests or woodlands. It originated in Scandinavia and has gained popularity worldwide as a way to foster holistic development in children and adults alike. Sessions are typically facilitated by trained practitioners and are designed to be long-term, flexible, and tailored to the needs and interests of the participants. Key principles of Forest School include: Child-Led Learning: Activities are guided by participants’ interests, promoting autonomy and creativity. Risk Management: Encouraging safe exploration and calculated risk-taking to develop resilience and problem-solving skills. Connection with Nature: Building a strong relationship with the environment, fostering care and stewardship. Social and Emotional Growth: Emphasizing collaboration, communication, and confidence-building. Benefits of Forest School Physical Development: Activities like climbing, balancing, and building improve motor skills, strength, and coordination. Emotional Well-Being: Spending time in nature reduces stress, boosts mood, and enhances emotional resilience. Social Skills: Working in groups fosters teamwork, communication, and conflict resolution. Confidence and Independence: Overcoming challenges and taking ownership of learning builds self-esteem and autonomy. Cognitive Development: Problem-solving, creativity, and curiosity are stimulated through open-ended play and exploration. Environmental Awareness: Immersive nature experiences promote eco-consciousness and a deeper understanding of ecosystems. Adaptability: Exposure to changing environments and conditions helps participants develop flexibility and resourcefulness. Forest School provides a unique, enriching alternative to traditional classroom settings, empowering learners to thrive in a holistic way while fostering a lifelong love for the outdoors.