Being ourselves in nature
Fewer and fewer children and adults spend time outside in nature. Indeed they may be fearful to do so because its a foreign experience. Forest School is an ethos rather than a place, which involves exploring the world in a person-centred, investigative way. It is used by schools, nurseries, for mental health recovery, dementia groups or anyone who would like to reconnect with nature safely, with a little guidance and awakening curiosity.
Forest school sessions are usually planned as a regular series to develop confidence and build skills incrementally. An outdoor venue is selected and becomes the base. The leader (Rosie in this case) supplies tarpaulins, ropes, tools, hot drinks, ideas and games. The group learn how to keep themselves safe and to work together to achieve. We go out in most weathers, learning how to make shelters and keep warm, and cook outdoors if fire is appropriate. The group develop deep satisfaction and self-confidence in their coping skills and communication. Fitness and stamina improves. The fresh air and space often enables those who struggle in a close urban environment.
Activities can include environmental art, storytelling, bushcraft skills, nature identification and tracking, plants for food and health and wood crafts. Active games are added to bring the group together.
Funding for equipment can be sourced from Leader, lottery, Forestry Commission and other sources.
Rosie is a member of Outdoor Woodland Learning Scotland and is insured as an outdoor activities provider. She has level 3 Forest school Leader qualifications and a current outdoor first aid certificate including paediatrics.