Benefits to Learners
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Increased confidence and self esteem - The learner-led discovery that is gently facilitated within a Forest School context can be particularly conducive to building self esteem. Practitioners carefully observe learner to gauge; attitudes and dispositions, learning styles and individual strengths and interests. Learners are given the time and space they need to discover, experiment and consolidate through play and facilitated experiences. Emphasis is placed upon the process each individual is going through rather than the end products. Over time, the learners take on more responsibility for their own choices, becoming personally competent and emotionally resilient
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Healthy Lifestyles - Physical benefits of being active outside include; increase oxygen intake, exposure to sunlight (essential for skin to synthesise vitamin D), and physical activity increasing fitness levels and stamina. Being active in natural places also is important to reduce stress and promote mental wellbeing. Mind (Mental Health Charity) have published a report on the benefits of ‘Ecotherapy’ as an alternative treatment for mental health disorders. The Wildlife Trusts and the University of Essex have also undertaken a literature review found here.
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An inclusive environment – The holistic approach appreciates the learner as a whole person, with each part of them being just as important as the next. No single aspect of a person is ranked and valued above others, as all are essential for human development. This combined with the learner-led approach means that everyone can; participate in their own way, celebrate diversity and that we can all achieve something that will be equally valued within the community.
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Developing risk awareness – Exposure to an appropriate level of risk is essential to learners' development, it presents challenges, encourages problem solving, negotiation and gives participants the opportunity to develop awareness of themselves and their capabilities. The nature of the Forest School environment promotes learners to observe consequences to actions and to take responsibility for the choices they make. Writer and researcher Tim Gill, has researched the huge benefits to children’s development of risk, and the harm that a cotton wool society can do.
Forest Research have undertaken a number of studies identifying the benefits of Forest School for children please visit their webpage for links to research.
In Norfolk, Norfolk County Council undertook an initial pilot in 2005 to explore the benefits of Forest School. You can download the report here.
