Winter Solstice tales
Soltice is derived from the latin words for sun and standing. So, it essentially means sun standing still. Yule is the pagan term for Winter Solstice. It is celebrated as the day when the [...]
Outdoor Festive Feast
Outdoor Celebration Gathering together and sharing food is how festivals are celebrated across the world. In our family Christmas dinner is time for all the generations to get together. Even though the rules are [...]
Berries, old wives tales and observing patterns nature
Trees laden with berries means a hard winter- Old wives tale or not? This year I've noticed trees almost falling over with holly and hawthorn berries and the pantry is stocked with rosehip syrup [...]
What can dead creatures teach us at Forest School?
Learning about death. My introduction to Forest School was a friend telling me her toddler had stroked a dead mole there. Being a new mum and having always been freaked out by dead things [...]
Co-ordinating the curriculum Outdoors. How training as a Level 3 Outdoor Learning Coordinator could benefit your school.
Why take it to the next level? Our Outdoor Learning practitioner course gives teachers confidence that they can deliver the curriculum outdoors. Moreover, it gives them the skills to do this in an inspirational [...]
Build a hedgehog home
Build a hedgehog house in Forest School. Hedgehogs have just been recognised as vulnerable to extinction. At school children learn a lot about various environmental issues. Giving them a way to be part of [...]
Elder pencils
Charcoal Pencils This is a great way to use any charcoal you've made (see our charcoal making instructions blog) and gives the children something appealing to take home. Step 1 Chop elder branches with [...]
Campfire pancakes!
Campfire Pancakes As it's Shrove Tuesday this week, we're planning to have a lot of fun making pancakes on the fire. I much prefer making pancakes outside; no whirring extractor fan, and much easier [...]
When is it to windy for Forest School
It's been pretty windy recently with storm Ciara and Dennis on the way. Wind can be so much fun and it's a great way to learn about speed and forces. But when is it [...]
Storytelling
Storytelling and its importance for outdoor learning and Forest School. I believe in the power of stories. They help us connect, feel, learn and remember. Storytelling is a key element of our Outdoor Learning and [...]