What are the six principles of Forest School?
The development of the Forest School Six Principles is a key aspect of shaping and defining the philosophy and approach of Forest School education. These principles encapsulate the core values that guide Forest School practitioners in creating a unique and effective learning environment in natural settings. The formulation of these principles represents a thoughtful and intentional effort to articulate the fundamental beliefs that underpin the Forest School movement.
1. **Principle of Holistic Development:**
The emphasis on holistic development is foundational to Forest School philosophy. This principle recognizes the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, social, and cognitive aspects of a child's development. Forest School aims to nurture the whole child, fostering growth in all these dimensions through meaningful and engaging experiences in nature. This holistic approach recognizes that learning is not confined to academic subjects but extends to the development of life skills, resilience, and a deep connection to the natural world.
2. **Principle of Nature Connection:**
Central to the Forest School experience is the principle of establishing and nurturing a profound connection with nature. This principle acknowledges the intrinsic value of the natural world in the learning process. Forest School practitioners aim to facilitate a strong bond between participants and the environment, fostering a sense of wonder, curiosity, and respect for the natural world. This connection serves as a foundation for environmental stewardship and a lifelong appreciation for the Earth.
3. **Principle of Child-Led Learning:**
The principle of child-led learning underscores the importance of allowing children to take the lead in their learning journeys. Forest School sessions are designed to be child-initiated, allowing participants the autonomy to explore, question, and discover in a self-directed manner. This principle recognizes the inherent capabilities of children as active learners, encouraging them to shape their own learning experiences based on their interests and curiosity.
4. **Principle of Play and Risk:**
Forest School embraces the significance of play as a powerful vehicle for learning. This principle recognizes play as a natural and essential way for children to explore and make sense of the world around them. Moreover, the principle of risk acknowledges that controlled exposure to challenges and uncertainties in a supportive environment contributes to the development of resilience, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence.
5. **Principle of Long-Term Process:**
Forest School is not a one-time event but a process that unfolds over time. This principle emphasizes the value of regular and repeated experiences in nature for optimal learning and development. Long-term engagement allows for the gradual building of relationships, trust, and a deepening connection with the natural world. The principle of a long-term process aligns with the idea that meaningful and lasting change often takes time to manifest.
6. **Principle of Qualified Practitioners:**
The final principle emphasizes the importance of having qualified and trained practitioners leading Forest School sessions. Qualified practitioners possess the knowledge, skills, and understanding necessary to create a safe and enriching outdoor learning environment. This principle underscores the professional responsibility of Forest School practitioners to uphold the integrity of the approach and ensure the well-being of participants.
These six principles represent a collaborative effort within the Forest School community to articulate and define the core values and beliefs that guide the practice. As guiding tenets, these principles provide a framework for practitioners, educators, and advocates, shaping Forest School education's ongoing evolution and implementation across diverse settings.
