In today`s fast moving, consumer orientated, materialistic, hi-tech, risk assessment world, somehow, somewhere along the line, the value of outdoor play in the natural environment, has been overlooked.  This generation are the first generation when, for the majority of children, their relationship with the natural world has been completely stifled and the results of which are now beginning to show - frightening thought!.  Child obesity, depression, ADHD are just some of the ever increasing medical problems which are now being directly linked to the lack of relationship with the natural world. 

A wonderful book which highly influenced our own journey is "Last Child in the Woods - Saving our Children from Nature Defecit Disorder" by Richard Louv - a must read for anyone interested in the future wellbeing of our children and young people.  You will find much information about Forest Schools on the internet and we highly recommend that any research time will be very well spent!

 Each EarthCraftuk Forest School programme will run with two qualified Level 3 Practitoners at our stunning 300 acre ancient woodland site in Kent throughout the year. The programme consists of a minimum of 12 sessions for groups of between 12 & 15 participants.  Although Forest Schools is for all ages, we have chosen to concentrate our provision in delivering long term programmes KS4 students. Our Forest School setting is adaptable and allows a flexible approach to learning that can accommodate a range of learning styles, such as "Kinaesthetic" Learning (learning by doing), Linguistic, Interpersonal, Mathematical and Visual Learning. 

One of our Forest Schools programmes is being followed by the  national Bushcraft & Survival Skills Magazine available in the larger WH Smiths shops.

Basic woodland hand tools are used in Forest Schools in a traditional woodland manner. A range of basic woodland skills are taught, together with activities to experience and learn about the forest environment.  Activities are learner led and selected to be appropriate to the skills level and the weather conditions - with each successive activity building on the skills already developed. Research has shown that attending Forest School programmes, has a powerful positive effect in helping children to:

* Build self esteem and confidence
* Become independent learners
* Stay safe and establish their own boundaries for risk taking
* Show creativity, innovation and problem solving
* To be able to explore at their own pace
* Increase physical and social skills

also to become more environmentally aware of everyones` environmental responsibilities throughout life helping to create a sustainable future for generations to come.