Forest School Sessions for Schools

Nature based learning

Schools are often looking for ways to improve student wellbeing. Forest School connects kids to nature and is an innovative way to lower stress, improve cognition, build positive emotions and help them to build resilience. There is also a growing body of research to show the positive impact that nature can have on the symptoms of ADHD, including hyperactivity, impulse control and concentration. Play in nature also gives students open-ended opportunities to work through trauma or difficult situations they are experiencing in their lives. They can role-play and imagine to their heart’s content. There is also time for being still, for solitude and contemplation, if that is what they need. For some children, it might be the only time in their lives that they have the chance to be quiet and alone.

HOW IT WORKS:

As a qualified teacher, I take a group or groups of students to a local bushland/parkland area on a weekly basis for a minimum of two hours. During the sessions, students participate in a variety of teamwork, hands-on and sensory activities, such as woodworking, nature craft and mindfulness, as well as having time to just play, explore and learn in nature. Students learn to take and manage risks and build a growth mindset. Curriculum outcomes are negotiated with classroom teachers on a case-by-case basis and students develop an awareness of sustainability. Aboriginal culture is explored through flora and fauna, as well as hut building and use of tools.

If you would like to book a trial session or find out more about Forest School or its educational/wellbeing benefits, I would be happy to come and chat.

Professional Learning

Outdoor Pedagogy for Primary Teachers

Informative and practical sessions for teachers wanting to learn how to use nature or outdoor classrooms to improve their student’s cognitive, physical, social and emotional wellbeing. Teachers will investigate how play can positively impact our students’ learning and creativity and how we can provide more play opportunities within the school day.  The concept of risk will be explored, including risk benefits and growth mindset, as well as how to scaffold children to manage their own risks.

If you want to have time for significant learning and buy in from teachers, sessions need to be no less than three hours (this can be split over 2-3 weeks if necessary).

 

Nature Play Learning acknowledges the Wurundjeri people as the traditional owners and custodians of the land on which we play each week. We pay our respects to the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation and their ancestors and elders - past, present, and emerging. We recognise that this land always was and always will be indigenous land and we will continue to support, protect and promote indigenous rights and freedoms.