Forest school sessions build confidence, self-awareness and a deeper affinity with nature

Children climbing a tree in a woodland

At its heart it provides hands-on experiences and child-led learning in the natural environment.

A wonderful opportunity for children to learn outside and connect with nature.

Free Hackney Forest Schools

ecoACTIVE Hackney Forest School Clubs warmly embrace all children aged between 7 and 11 in our local area. We extend a invitation to those who have yet to uncover the wonders of Forest Schools. Our club provides an inclusive sanctuary for children to come together, learn, and have fun. With session capacities limited to 15 children, priority is given to those who may not have regular access to green spaces or who could benefit from extra support for their physical and psychological wellbeing.

Shoreditch Adventure Playground : Every TUESDAY 3:45 to 5:15pm from 30th April to 16th July 2024 (no session on 7th and 28th May)

Hackney Marsh Adventure Playground : Every THURSDAY 3:45 to 5:15pm from 2nd May to 11th July 2024 (no session on 30th May)

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The benefits of Forest School

Forest schools provide a relaxed environment in which children can learn about nature and develop key life skills. The connection with nature can really help personal wellbeing.

Forest schools help children build confidence, self-awareness, and social and teamwork skills. Over the course, children have time to connect with themselves and others, understand their inner needs and become owners of their own freedom. They can explore the environment following their own interests and pace and develop a deeper affinity with nature.

Our monitoring shows children on average gave increased expressions of decisiveness, open-mindedness and optimism after completing a Forest School programme.

 
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What we offer

Workshops are delivered by qualified, experienced Forest School leaders. We create a safe space for children to develop emotional intelligence, empathy and connection, without the physical confines of a school environment. Sessions are child-led: they are free to decide what they want to do, how and when.

The hard work of planning and preparing for outdoor sessions is taken care of, as we have permission to use many local sites.

We offer between six and twelve session Forest School programmes with groups of up to 16 pupils. We run sessions in a green space close to the school (eg a local park), making the most of the hidden nature pockets, wildlife spots and diverse habitats across London.

Forest School activities:

 

Campfire cooking

Natural building

Risk taking

Free play

Bushcraft

Habitat discovery

Team skills

Exploration

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“First-hand experiences of learning outside the classroom can help to make subjects more vivid and interesting for pupils and enhance their understanding.

It can also contribute significantly to pupils’ personal, social and emotional development.”

- Ofsted, 2008 “Learning Outside the Classroom”

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