I am currently unable to run Forest School sessions as I don’t currently have access to a woodland area, but I am very happy to organise family / chidrens’ events or parties in your own woodland / garden.
Once I have access to woods again I will update this page, so do keep an eye or join me on social media for up to date information about sessions, bookings and general inspiration.
To discuss ideas and possibilities, feel free to email or give me a call…
During the 1970s and 80s our education system moved towards a more teacher led /outcome-centred approach and the national curriculum was introduced, mainly in an attempt to improve numeracy and literacy. What emerged from these changes in 1990s, was a growth of ‘alternative’ educational models and it is in this context that Forest School began to grow. See the Forest School Association website for more info.
Forest school is such a powerful way of giving children freedom and independence, the opportunity to explore and take risks within a managed setting. The benefits are endless and far reaching – current research is just scratching the surface but is already unequivocal in its recommendation of time spent in nature away from electronic devices and technology; outside in the fresh air and experiencing all weathers and seasons; being immersed in the rich bounty of the natural world; learning through exploration and discovery. Not only has regular time spent in nature and in particular, Forest school, shown to be of benefit personally, socially, emotionally, physically, physiologically, and educationally, but there are also environmental benefits too, e.g. a fostering of respect for our amazing planet and the natural world; a heightened sense of awareness of changes in the environment, as well as a greater understanding and enjoyment of nature that can only lead to a higher level of care and respect for the Environment, which is essential for generations to come.
I am a fully qualified Design Technology Teacher (QTS) and have taught all age groups and various subjects for over 18 years, in state, private and special education settings as well as freelance. I trained as a Level 3 Forest School Leader because I absolutely love being outdoors, especially in the woods and I know the power of nature for our well being and our learning. I also realised that many children today are seriously lacking in time outside and especially amongst trees, they just don’t have the opportunity to while away the hours watching, playing, exploring and getting muddy…in fact many live very sanitised lives! I felt such a strong desire and need to address this imbalance for the next generation…
I had designed many outdoor learning projects during my 10 years as Head of Design Technology but when I learned about Forest School, the research and the ethos really spoke to me about fulfilling this need and it was a turning point in my career.
Using their imagination and discovering new things is such a powerful way to learn and enjoy learning, it fills me with sorrow that children are not having these wonderful experiences as I did growing up…Forest School is one solution to that problem and I just love how much the children enjoy and appreciate these simple pleasures when they take part in Forest School & outdoor learning in general.
One thing I have learnt along the way, is that it’s not only our children who need these experiences and opportunities in nature…we do too! Which is why I set up my ‘wild woodland workshops‘ for us big kids!! We need to play too!
I trained with Earthcraft CIC in Canterbury, who I would highly recommend; they are authentic and passionate about what they do. As a freelance Forest School Leader, I am able to offer specialised Forest School sessions in school, Home Education, or recreation settings. I am based in Kent, and I am able to travel to surrounding areas. I am fully insured and have an up to date DBS – I have a fully comprehensive handbook which is available on request.
