|
'Forest School' originated in Sweden in the 1950s. By the 1980s it had emerged in Denmark, and eventually reached the UK by the 1990s. Forest School has been delivered at Moorland since the beginning of this year; children's learning has been 'brought to life', and results are both positive and tangible!
What exactly is a FOREST SCHOOL?
Forest School is a unique exciting way for children to explore, investigate and learn about the outdoor environment and the world in which they live. It is an inspirational process that offers children, young people and adults, regular opportunities to achieve, and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands on learning experiences in a woodland environment….. but most of all its lots of fun!
Environmental awareness is central to the Forest School ethos, and children are taught about the ecological impact that their actions can have on the natural world. The Forest School approach helps to nurture and encourage children to respect "their world". They learn to appreciate that they are the custodians of our planet; creating a sense of environmental responsibility.
The natural woodland environment is an exciting and enriching learning resource, and children use the 'treasures' they find there to be creative and inventive. However, at Forest School we also take care to ensure that it stays that way for the creatures and plants that live there. Forest School activities include designing mini-beasts habitats, building hedgehog homes and butterfly feeders and raising trees from seed. All contribute to creating a wildlife oasis where children can explore freely. Forest School teaches children to "Take only memories, leave only footprints!"
Since January, our Early Years children have been the lucky recipients of the 'Forest School experience'. This academic year we want to offer the older children in Year 5 the opportunity to become more engaged with their natural environment.
As with any new venture this has financial implications. At Forest School children experience the changing seasons and learn by being outdoors in all weathers. This year the children have enjoyed 'jumping in puddles', 'rolling down hills', 'lying on the grass listening to bird song' and 'writing in the freshly fallen snow.' Such activities require the children to be dressed appropriately. Forest School at Moorland Primary has had a close relationship with the local community from its inception. Initially local businesses kindly provided the financial support by means of sponsorship; enabling us to purchase the waterproofs needed for the Early Years children.
This term we need to secure funding to enable us to generate the appropriate resources and equipment needed for Forest School sessions to take place in Year 5. Our wish list includes: 10 sets of waterproofs (various sizes), a kelly storm kettle, 5 pen knifes, woodcookies, 5 junior hacksaws, a trivet for the campfire, 6 bug viewers.
The designated Forest School area at Moorland is situated in the grounds of the former St. Francis Church, which as you are aware closed 40 years ago this October. Where better for the children of Moorland Primary School to reconnect with the outdoors by being given the freedom to appreciate their natural surroundings, in a deep and meaningful way, according to their individual needs and interests?
For more information about Forest School activities at Moorland visit the school website:
www.moorlandprm.cardiff.sch.uk/gallery or check out the following websites for more information: www.foresteducation.org or www.woodland-learning.co.uk. If you would like to consider volunteering as a Forest School helper, or for further information about other becoming a 'Friend of Moorland Primary School', please get in touch!
|
|
