What is a forest school?
Learning through play, discovery, and adventure in nature.
What is a Forest School?
A forest school is a unique way for children to learn and grow by spending time outdoors in nature. Instead of a traditional classroom, the forest becomes the learning space, filled with opportunities for adventure, discovery, and creativity.
At forest school, children explore the natural world through play, storytelling, and hands-on activities like building shelters, using simple tools, making nature crafts, and observing plants and animals. Each session is child-led, meaning children are encouraged to follow their own curiosity and imagination, while caring adults provide gentle guidance and support.
This approach helps children develop important life skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, independence, and resilience. It also encourages confidence, self-esteem, and a deep love for the environment.
Most of all, forest school is about joy—climbing, running, getting muddy, laughing with friends, and discovering the wonders of the outdoors. It’s a safe, nurturing space where children can truly be themselves while learning about the world around them.
Nature & play-based learning
Group activities can form naturally through the children's exploration... & also through the teacher's clever, intentional set-up, often with simple tools like kitchen utensils!
Free-play & imagination
Children's imaginations thrive in natural settings & when they're allowed to free-play as longs they need -
that sweet spot of intense mental focus helps them learn...
& learn to LOVE learning!