The Principles of Forest School: Nurturing Nature-Based Learning

In recent years, forest schools have gained recognition for their innovative approach to education, emphasising outdoor exploration, hands-on learning, and environmental stewardship. Central to the forest school ethos are its guiding principles, which shape the philosophy and practices of these unique educational settings. In this post, I'll delve into what the principles of forest school are and how they contribute to fostering holistic development in children.

Understanding the Principles of Forest School

Nature as a Classroom:

• At the heart of forest school principles is the recognition of nature as a rich and dynamic learning environment. Forest schools prioritise outdoor settings such as woodlands, forests, and natural green spaces as the primary context for learning. By immersing children in natural surroundings, forest schools provide opportunities for sensory exploration, hands-on discovery, and ecological understanding. No need to give up if you don't have access to a woodland, you can create a Forest School experience in a playground or park. Just make sure you have permission from the landowner first.
  
  

Child-Led Learning:

• Forest schools embrace a child-led approach to learning, where children take the lead in directing their own exploration and discovery. Educators act as facilitators rather than instructors, supporting children's interests, curiosity, and natural rhythms of play. This autonomy and agency empower children to follow their passions, make decisions, and take ownership of their learning experiences. I often plan activities only to find out that the children come up with ideas that are much better than mine anyway. Just be brave, facilitate and observe.
  
  

Holistic Development:

• Forest schools prioritise holistic development by nurturing children's physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Outdoor play and nature-based activities promote gross motor skills, sensory development, and physical health. Exploration and inquiry foster cognitive skills such as observation, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Social interaction and collaboration build communication skills, empathy, and cooperation. Time spent in nature also supports emotional resilience, mental health, and a sense of connection to the natural world. This is also true for the Forest School leaders as well as the participants.

• 
  

• 
  
  

Risk-taking and Resilience:

• Forest schools embrace risk-taking as an essential component of learning and growth. Children are encouraged to explore their boundaries, take calculated risks, and engage in adventurous play under the guidance of trained educators. By facing challenges, overcoming obstacles, and learning from mistakes, children develop resilience, confidence, and self-efficacy. Long gone are the days when children used to spend the whole day roaming around with friends, only returning home to eat and sleep. Forest school allows children the time and space to take risks and build confidence.
  
  

Environmental Awareness and Stewardship:

• Forest schools cultivate environmental awareness, empathy, and stewardship by fostering a deep connection to the natural world. Children learn about ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainability through hands-on experiences, ecological investigations, and conservation activities. By instilling a sense of responsibility and care for the environment, forest schools empower children to become active stewards of the planet. This responsibility and care will continue long after they have outgrown forest school.
  
  

Relationship Building:

• Forest schools prioritise building positive relationships among children, educators, and the natural world. Through collaborative activities, group experiences, and shared adventures, children develop a sense of belonging, trust, and camaraderie. Strong relationships with peers, educators and nature foster a supportive and nurturing learning environment where children feel safe, valued, and respected.

The principles of forest school embody a holistic approach to education that celebrates the inherent value of nature, child-led learning, holistic development, risk-taking, environmental stewardship, and relationship building. By embracing these principles, forest schools create nurturing and empowering learning environments where children can thrive, grow, and connect with the wonders of the natural world. As we continue to recognise the importance of nature-based education in today's world, the principles of forest school serve as a guiding light for shaping the future of learning.