what is forest school?

The Wildwood Club is inspired by the Forest School principles set out by the Forest School Association;

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.
Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.
Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
Forest School is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.
Forest School uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for development and learning

At The Wildwood Club we aim to develop a holistic approach to learning, which means developing the whole self at the same time. Elements of holistic development that are supported through Forest School include (but are not limited to!)

Physical: Climbing trees, making dens by lifting and moving large branches, balancing on fallen logs.Using tools, tying knots, mark making using natural resources.

Emotional: Developing resilience by being outdoors in all weathers and learning ways to manage well being in these situations. Taking manageable risks and trying different ways to do this.

Social: Being part of a strong community.

Spiritual: Experiencing the changing of the seasons and noticing the difference in the natural environment.

Intellectual: language development, collaborative play, discussion and reflection