What is Forest School?
Forest School is described as a classroom without a ceiling or walls.
The emphasis is on using forested/woodland areas on a regular basis to inspire learning and develop self-esteem, confidence, and independence among its participants. The educational concept originated in Scandinavia in the 1950's in Early Childhood Programs and Daycare Centres. Students who participated in these programs began school (at age 7) with higher social skills, stronger self-esteem, and more confidence in their abilities. As a result "Forest or Nature Kindergartens" began to crop up throughout Europe and still exist today as best practice in Education for all age groups.
In Forest School, students spend anywhere from half a day to full days in the outdoors in natural spaces on a regular basis. Curriculum emerges from student-led curiosities and specific learning goals are embedded into students' outdoor nature experiences. Materials found in nature are used as toys or tools for children to explore and/or create their own learning opportunities and materials.
The educator's role in Forest School is to assist student learning rather than lead or control it. Educators observe and document student thinking and learning in order to provide appropriate materials to stimulate growth. A solid knowledge of the curriculum is used to scaffold student learning in order to help students achieve new levels of accomplishment.
Forest School is described as a classroom without a ceiling or walls.
The emphasis is on using forested/woodland areas on a regular basis to inspire learning and develop self-esteem, confidence, and independence among its participants. The educational concept originated in Scandinavia in the 1950's in Early Childhood Programs and Daycare Centres. Students who participated in these programs began school (at age 7) with higher social skills, stronger self-esteem, and more confidence in their abilities. As a result "Forest or Nature Kindergartens" began to crop up throughout Europe and still exist today as best practice in Education for all age groups.
In Forest School, students spend anywhere from half a day to full days in the outdoors in natural spaces on a regular basis. Curriculum emerges from student-led curiosities and specific learning goals are embedded into students' outdoor nature experiences. Materials found in nature are used as toys or tools for children to explore and/or create their own learning opportunities and materials.
The educator's role in Forest School is to assist student learning rather than lead or control it. Educators observe and document student thinking and learning in order to provide appropriate materials to stimulate growth. A solid knowledge of the curriculum is used to scaffold student learning in order to help students achieve new levels of accomplishment.