Whilst images of foxes and rabbits sitting down with textbooks and pencils may come to mind, forest schools are actually more straightforward – but just as impressive! In this guide, we’ll be answering your questions on ‘What is a forest school?’ and talking you through the many benefits of sending your child to a setting like Ashbridge that embraces the Forest School principles.
What are Forest School Principles?
A forest school puts emphasis on the importance of outdoor learning in fostering confidence and helping children develop and learn holistically. They take the classroom outside, creating engaging and memorable learning experiences for pupils and teaching them the value of the great outdoors from a young age. Forest schools also promote an interest-led education, offering children the freedom and opportunity to explore their interests and discover learning styles that genuinely work for them.
Here at Ashbridge, we truly understand the value of outdoor education. So, if you’re looking for the perfect place to send your little one, consider taking a look at Ashbridge Nursery in Hutton, Maxy Farm Nursery, and The Fledgelings Nursery. Or, if you still need some convincing, keep reading to find out more about forest school principles and the many benefits of learning in such an environment!
What are the Benefits of Forest Schools?
Where do we start? Forest schools possess all the benefits of a regular classroom and then some. Where else do your little ones have the freedom to take off their shoes and truly connect with the earth?
Minimises Screen Time
Now, more than ever, children’s screen time is at an all-time high. It’s imperative that during their younger years, children are offered the opportunity to explore, adventure, and understand the world around them. From a young age, forest schools teach children the value of the great outdoors.
Strengthens Mental Wellbeing
It’s no secret that taking the time to go for a walk or simply relax in a field is a natural de-stresser. So, allowing children the time to spend outside is the perfect way to make sure that they remember school as a positive experience, with plenty of good times and few anxieties.
Supports With Risk-management
Sometimes, children need to work things out for themselves. Forest school allows children the chance to take calculated risks and make decisions in an environment that parents can rest assured is safe. This is an extremely valuable lesson to learn at a young age, which most schools struggle to teach in the same way. At Ashbridge, our forest school and outdoor environments afford children the opportunity to take managed risks, improving their confidence and independence.
Allows Creativity to Run Wild
Classrooms can be really inspiring, but there’s no question that learning outdoors stimulates the minds of children like no classroom can! Whether it’s creative thinking, problem-solving , risk management or the arts, forest schools simply breathe creativity.
Boosts Performance
Offering a variety of hands-on learning styles, forest schools know exactly how to keep things interesting and engaging for younger minds. Forest schools like Ashbridge also promote interest-led learning, which encourages youngsters to take an active interest and responsibility in their education.
Encourages Teamwork
Socialising with fellow classmates can be a big step for a child attending school. The nature of forest schools, however, means that children are encouraged to communicate and cooperate with each other very quickly – whether that’s while completing tasks set by teachers or exploring the facilities and navigating risks around them.
Visit an Ashbridge Forest School Today
Hopefully, you’ve got a better understanding of forest school principles and the many advantages of pupil-led learning. If you’d like to experience the forest school experience for yourself, book a visit to Ashbridge with your child! You can book an Ashbridge tour today or contact us for more information on the benefits of forest schools.
