Surrey Forest Schools

Surrey Forest Schools can offer development, advice, support and delivery of Forest Schools and outdoor learning packages for children and adults in Surrey

Forest Schools originated in Scandinavia in the 1950's and were developed to support 'child led learning' within the natural environment.

In the 1990's, Forest Schools were established in the United Kingdom following an exchange visit to Denmark from practitioners at Bridgewater College, Somerset. Using inspiration from what they had witnessed, Forest Schools were set up in Scotland, Wales and parts of England.

Learning takes place in the outdoors, where the environment stimulates children's natural curiosities as they learn to assess and manage their own risks and become confident in their own abilities.

Surrey Forest School Leaders recognise each child or young person as an individual, inspiring and encouraging them to develop self- esteem, confidence and physical skills through exploration of our natural environment.

At our Forest School sessions, children first learn the boundaries and safety rules of their woodland site. Safety is our priority and all of our sites and activities are fully risk assessed.

Children have the freedom and independence to explore, climb trees, create dens and play in the natural environment. We support children in child initiated activities, engaging them to respect the natural environment fostering a lifelong learning of nature and the outdoors.

At Surrey Forest Schools children enjoy the environment through the seasons, learning to identify flora and fauna, embarking on minibeast hunts, creating habitats for the wildlife and much more!