Growing Confidence, Resilience, and Connection through Forest Schools
At Ashdale Care, nourishing the confidence and potential of every young person is always at the heart of what we do. That’s why we’re excited to share news of our first few Forest School sessions which are nature-based learning blocks that have been met with enthusiastic smiles (and muddy boots!) from all the young people involved.
Forest School at Ashdale Care offers a nurturing, outdoor learning experience where freedom of choice and exploration flourish. With high adult-to-child ratios, our qualified Forest School Leaders let young people direct their own learning while providing mentorship and support.
The experiences designed for them are playful and grounded in nature.This approach allows learners to try new things and grow their resilience as well as practical skills.
Six Principles of the Forest School
Our sessions are anchored in the six core principles developed by the Forest School Association which cover the following benchmarks.
- Regular & Ongoing
Weekly sessions run in six-week cycles throughout the year so young people experience the forest in different seasons and contexts. - Woodland Setting
Learning in natural surroundings helps young people develop a deeper connection to the environment and foster sustainable practices. - Community Building
Sessions are learner-centred, encouraging play and peer collaboration which creates a sense of belonging and shared purpose. - Holistic Development
Activities are designed around each young person’s “zone of proximal development,” encouraging growth in physical, cognitive, and creative capacities. - Supported Risk-Taking
With thoughtful Risk-Benefit Assessments and high adult supervision, young people are encouraged to test boundaries safely and build resilience. - Qualified Practitioners
Our Forest School Leaders hold Level 6 Forest School Leadership qualifications and continue to engage in professional development to deliver the highest quality provision.
What the Sessions Look Like
Over the past six weeks, our young people have been discovering and testing new skills:
- Building with Knots: Crafting swings, rope walks, and shelters using different knot techniques.
- Tool Mastery: Working safely with bowsaws, knives, loppers, and mallets to make tent pegs, roasting sticks, jewellery, and more.
- Fire Skills: Learning to start, maintain, and extinguish campfires safely while roasting treats and brewing nettle tea.
- Foraging Explorations: Identifying edible woodland plants, berries, and nuts; cooking with them and learning about folklores.
- Shelters & Survival: Constructing debris and tarp shelters, playing woodland games, and observing the principles of Leave No Trace.
- Free Play: Hammock-lazing, bug hunting and letting imagination roam freely in the forest while swinging and playing.
The Difference We’re Seeing
It’s been inspiring to watch young people blossom through Forest School. Hesitant at the start, many are now stepping into challenges with curiosity and courage. Skills like teamwork, problem-solving, independence, and self-awareness are shining through.
For some, the forest has become a place to unwind. For others, a space to discover new possibilities, both in nature and within themselves.
Looking Ahead
The Forest School is already proving to be a powerful way to support our young people’s development. We’re thrilled with the early results and even more excited for the adventures, and stories still to come as the seasons change.