Forest School is a holistic practice that gently encourages opportunities to develop independence in all areas of life, as it is important that there are opportunities for the children to manage their own risks. This is achieved by allowing children of all ages to use tools, light fires, build dens, climb trees and participate in rough play. Trusting children to work with tools and fire allows them to manage risk and take responsibility for themselves everyone around them. This responsibility leads to young people gaining a greater sense of self-worth, self-confidence, leadership and communication skills.
During Forest School sessions activities are guided by the interests of the individual: resources are available for many activities to facilitate this, along with a high ratio of leaders and staff to children. Giving children this freedom and independence in their chosen tasks promotes interest and inquisitiveness.
