COTSWOLD

“Forest School is an inspirational process that offers children and young people opportunities to achieve, develop confidence and self esteem, through hands-on learning experiences in a local woodland environment.”

 

Forest School (England) Network.

 

Cotswold Forest School has been adapted from a Scandinavian approach to learning where access to outdoor environments at all times of year and in all weathers is normal.

 

The philosophy of Cotswold Forest School is to encourage and inspire individuals of all ages through positive experiences and participation in engaging, motivating and achievable tasks. Taking part in activities in woodland helps children and young people to develop a connection and respect for the natural world, promoting both physical and mental health. Cotswold Forest School believe all children should be regularly interacting with nature and this ethos underpins all Forest School provision.

 

Programmes differ in execution with varying groups, leaders, location and learning objectives but will always involve regular visits to woodland where participants take part in activities and games, making use of the natural environment.

 

Research has found that the benefits for young people of all backgrounds in attending Forest School are:

 

• Increased self-confidence and self-belief

• Development in social skills and awareness of their actions on others

• Increased language and communication skills

• A keenness to participate — motivation and concentration

• Improved stamina and gross and fine motor skills

• Development of respect for and interest in the natural environment

 

The Forest School approach focuses on the process of learning rather than the outcomes. Time allows for repetition, the development of confidence as well as the consolidation and transfer of skills.