How Hedges Direct are transforming the outdoor space of an urban primary school.
The value of our green spaces is something that as adults many of us have grown to appreciate and love. However, in this changing world, is waiting until adulthood too late for our younger generation?
Learning to love, nurture and protect our planet, animals and natural environment has never been more important, but is often a neglected part of younger children’s education. However, the Forest School Association is now working with primary schools to change this.
We have pledged to support a local primary school with this new approach to learning. Kearsley West Primary School sits within a built up area of Bolton, Greater Manchester, but this hasn’t stopped head teacher Jackie Fitton from providing her pupils with new outdoor opportunities:
“I am so excited for our children to start learning and experiencing new things in our Forest School. This project will be hugely beneficial for all our children, most especially those who struggle with confidence and independence. Over the last year, our children have missed out on so many opportunities to learn and develop with their friends, which is why we are so grateful to Hedges Direct for helping us to make this happen.”
What is a Forest School?
A Forest School offers children regular opportunities to achieve, develop confidence and self esteem through hands-on learning experiences in a woodland environment. For some children, this may be their only chance to enjoy and appreciate the natural world that surrounds them…
In 2017, a major survey on the mental health of children in the UK found that 12% of children haven’t visited a natural environment, such as a park or forest, in the last year.
What are the benefits?
There are many benefits for children who attend a Forest School. It has been found that previously shy or the more quieter children of the classrooms have shown improvements in their confidence and communication skills. Also, children who were initially un-cooperative learn that sharing and working together has positive outcomes.
Learners also gain respect and appreciation for the natural environment. This is achieved through many small interactions and noticing changes around them through the seasons. Providing children with an opportunity to appreciate the wider, natural world encouraging them to take responsibility for nature conservation in later life.
Would your school like to team up with us on a Forest School project? Contact us on 01257 788 248 or email marketing@hedgesdirect.co.uk
Sources: Forest Schools, High Speed Training, Forest Schools Association.
