News
Scandinavian-style outdoor teaching comes to Ipswich
15th February 2010
Children from St Christopher’s pupil referral unit in Ipswich are taking part in a new approach to education. Based outdoors at Bridge Wood in Orwell Country Park, the key stage 2 students are taking part in a six week course, run by Suffolk Wildlife Trust, which is designed to cater for a more hands-on way of learning outdoors in the natural environment.
SWT education officer Emma Kerridge explains: “Forest schools is all about getting out into the woods to explore and learn. It was developed in Scandinavia in 1950’s – using a woodland setting as an ‘outdoor classroom’ as a way of helping young people learn about the natural world. Forest Schools uses the natural resources in the woodland and the children’s interests to stimulate imaginative, creative and investigative activities. The child led and child centred activities help foster concentration, social skills and self confidence.”
Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s education team are all trained forest school leaders and have run taster days for teachers and child minders throughout the county.
Janet Shanks from St Christopher’s says her pupils gain a great deal from attending Forest Schools: “So far we have been bug hunting and shelter building and next session we’ll try our hands at outdoor cooking. The children are learning important life skills such as team work, co-operation, listening and decision making and how to work effectively in small groups or pairs. They are also learning about the natural world around them.”
St Christopher’s pupil referral unit is a short stay school catering for up to 12 young people between 7-14yrs who have experienced significant emotional and behavioural difficulties.
“The young people come to us either full time or part time and are dual registered with their mainstream school. They receive a high quality education, a range of experiences and opportunities to work closely on improving behaviour, attendance and academic progress within a safe, nurturing environment. There is an emphasis on basic skills and understanding and managing behaviour.”
For more information please contact Emma Kerridge on 01284 728706 or Suffolk Wildlife Trust on 01473 8900890. For details of the Trust’s education work visit www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org
ENDS
Notes to editors
Forest Schools allows foundation stage learning and the national curriculum to be delivered in a fun, non-threatening way. Research has shown a powerful effect on children’s confidence, self esteem and independence as well as an increase in social and physical skills.
