Forest School sessions are run by qualified leaders who plan the sessions in response to observations made during the previous session. New skills are introduced and built upon over the weeks that the group access sessions.

Forest School sessions take place on a designated site, ideally in a woodland, but commonly on school grounds. We recommend a slightly higher child:teacher ratio than in a classroom-based session; more like the ratio for a school trip (exact ratios vary with age and ability of groups).

The Forest School provides ways for meeting learning objectives while developing practical life skills and encouraging child-initiated learning, which is observed and assessed.

Many children and young people benefit from and prefer a practical element to their learning, and achieve greater levels of success in this context than a traditional classroom environment.

All children benefit from opportunities to demonstrate a wider range of knowledge and expertise - especially important for those who don't often 'shine' in the classroom. Their peers give them and their achievements greater respect.

Forest School is particularly successful in developing self-esteem and confidence, and motivating children who, for a range of reasons, struggle in a classroom environment.

Forest School has additional physical, social and health benefits for children and young people who are leading increasingly indoor lives, helping them to enjoy physical activity outdoors and mitigating against obesity.

Children and young people become more confident in their own natural and made environments, and acquire a deeper understanding about environmental issues locally and globally.

Improved behaviour and motivation go back into the usual learning environment with the children and have an impact on achievement.

If you're interested in your school/setting accessing Forest School sessions led by the Shropshire Council Forest School team, or would like some more information, please contact us:

Alice Savery
Forest School Development Officer
alice.savery@shropshire.gov.uk