Forest Schools

Forest School Forest School is a unique educational process that offers children of all ages opportunity to succeed and develop confidence and self esteem through hands-on learning experiences in a woodland environment.

To find out more about Forest School, find out what it happening in Derbyshire Forest Schools, get started yourself, share ideas and resources, download our Forest School Handbook and discover forthcoming events visit our Forest School blog (opens in a new window).

The philosophy was developed in Denmark for pre-school children where they found that children attending forest school were arriving at school with strong social skills.

They had the ability to work in groups effectively and generally the children had high self esteem and confidence in their own capabilities.

These foundations helped them to raise their academic achievements. This ethos was introduced to the UK during the 1990's and has been taken on as an effective educational tool in a variety of settings.

A Forest School:

  • increases self-esteem and self confidence

  • improves co-operation, communication skills and awareness of others 

  • increases motivation, self discovery and positive attitude towards learning

  • encourages ownership and pride in the local environment

  • encourages a better understanding of the outdoors

  • Increases the skills and knowledge of the individuals that take part.

We can support Derbyshire schools, nurseries and groups wishing to find out more about Forest Schools and how it may benefit their young people, help identify suitable woodland sites and provide taster sessions for pupils and staff and mentor staff undertaking Forest Schools Leader training. 

Please contact us at:

Derbyshire Forest Schools
Derbyshire Environmental Studies Service
Chesterfield Library, New Beetwell Street, Chesterfield  
S40 1QN

Tel: 01629 533439
email: forestschools@derbyshire.gov.uk

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