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WORKSHOPS

FOREST SCHOOL & BUSHCRAFT @ THE SOANES CENTRE

 

 

The Cemetery Park is the perfect space for a Forest School!  With hidden nooks and crannies, the widest diversity of flora and fauna in London and a dedicated outdoor classroom, children love coming to us for Forest School and Bushcraft sessions.

 

Benefits of the Forest School

 

Forest School activities are based on a pedagogic approach that draws on learning through play and self-guided inquiry, and on connection with nature.  There are many forms of outdoor education and all have enormous value. Forest School is unique in its reach, delivery and effect. Its benefits are structured around six principles:

 

  1.  A long-term process of regular sessions, rather than one-off or infrequent visits; the cycle of planning, observation, adaptation and review links each session.

  2.  Takes place in a woodland or natural environment to support the development of a lifelong relationship between the learner and the natural world.

  3.  Uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for being, development and learning.

  4.  Aims to promote the holistic development of all involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.

  5.  Offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.

  6.  Is run by qualified Forest School practitioners, who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.  Our Education Manager, Dim, is qualified to Level Three.

 

What happens in a session

 

Sessions are suitable for up to 15 children at once, with at least two teachers or classroom assistants.  Our practice for most classes is to book a whole class for the session, dividing into two groups who swap activities halfway through the session:

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  • Activity One: Guided and supervised Forest School activities with our Education Manager

  • Activity Two:  Self-guided play or nature walk in the Park, accompanied by teacher or classroom assistant (resources provided if required)

 

We have found Forest School sessions to be particularly valuable to children in Alternative Provision, who may attend in smaller groups.  The activities, setting and pace of Forest School helps to develop listening skills, risk-taking and exploration and builds self-confidence.  Most schools prefer to book a series of weekly sessions, rather than a one-off booking, though these are also available.

 

How long a session lasts

 

Forest School sessions last from 1.5 to 2 hours and all equipment is provided.  Sessions cost £250 for a class of up to 30 children.

 

For availability and to discuss your group’s needs, please complete our Booking Enquiry Form.

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