Forest School originated
in Sweden in the 1950’s and was introduced in Britain in
the late 1990’s. It is an inspirational process that offers regular
opportunities to appreciate and enjoy the outdoors. Learning occurs in a
relaxed environment using all of the senses. Choices can be made and risks
understood and taken. Forest School happens all year round and
so children should wear warm, waterproof clothing. The ethos
of Forest School is that learners should be allowed time and
space to explore, develop skills and interests and understanding through
practical, hands on experience. Forest School promotes good health and
fitness and an awareness of good hygiene. It helps children’s social and
communication development as they work together problem solving, developing
motor-skills and coordination in a fun and relaxed environment. Children also
learn a sense of personal responsibility and respect for their environment as
well as developing their confidence, self-esteem and independence.
Our first
session back at Basildon Park was a dry one. The day started out chilly until
the sun came out. A perfect morning for Woodland School. The children
remembered all the Woodland rules to keep us safe.
Our first
task was to work in pairs to create a suitable home for a dinosaur. The
criteria was to build a dry shelter that would protect the dinosaurs from the
cold, the wind, the rain and predators. We witnessed examples of good teamwork
and cooperation, sharing ideas and using them. Another task in pairs was for
one child to find a natural object and describe it to their partner. This
worked well and the children enjoyed it. In their independent activities,
climbing the fallen tree was very popular. Thank you to Mrs Miller for her help
during our session. Mrs Herbert