Wellbeing in the Woods
Information
Forest School and our well-being in the woods sessions are child-centred, holistic learning approaches that focuses on developing self-esteem, skills and connection to nature. Children attend regular or termly sessions that encourage exploration, risk taking and creativity that builds confidence and an understanding of practical activities that inspire real-life learning.
The outdoors gives children a space to play; express their individual personalities, develop social interactions and friendships. It nurtures relationships based on respect, equality and ensures that the young people are at the centre of the session.
Leaders model positive interactions, a sustainable relationship with nature and appropriate language that demonstrates a curiosity and interest in the world around them. Through empowerment, the children are able to develop problem solving skills, emotional intelligence and confidence, working in a holistic way that validates their own achievements, skills and learning.
Benefits of Forest School and outdoor learning
- Independence
- Confidence and self-esteem
- Resilience
- Social skills
- Achievement
- Emotional intelligence
Clothing
Sessions happen all year round, whatever the weather, therefore it is vital the children are dressed appropriately to ensure they can get the most from the activities. As the children will get dirty, please send clothes that you do not mind getting wet and muddy.
The children will always need waterproofs (coat and trousers), as the weather is unpredictable. However. St Pius X can provide them if needed..
All children with long hair should come with their hair tied back (or a bobble if they can tie their own hair back), this is to ensure safety when using tools or around the fire.
When participating in the use of tools, children will be provided with the relevant PPE, such as gloves when using a saw.
Risk vs benefit
Risk and challenge underpin the Forest School experience, as this encourages trying new skills, interacting at a deeper level with the environment around us and discovering abilities that were previously unknown. Taking risks allows the individual to push themselves to experience feelings and situations that are outside their comfort zone, into their challenge zone which is where most learning happens, as brains are in a heightened state of awareness. In doing so, they will learn about themselves, the world around them and others, this understanding can then be applied in different parts of life and increases curiosity and interest, inspiring intrinsic motivation to learn and engage. Throughout the sessions, the risks and benefits are continually analysed, assessed and appropriate to each group to mitigate serious consequences, which allows children to approach risk with knowledge and thought, leading to a positive outcome.