This was a task for a determined group of students, and within an afternoon, the area had been transformed from this........
Laura
Lisa and Linda had previously had experience with Forest School, although Laura and Sophie were Forest School virgins...How did they feel before and after the process?
Laura
"My Initial feelings before our forest school were a sense of uncertainty. I thought I would enjoy the physical aspect of the subject, but I thought it would be hard work and I would need lots of direction. This turned out to be the reverse; and we quickly took control of the job of cleaning and creating; Just like how I imagine the forest inspires the children to initiate their own learning. The sense of achievement in seeing the finished article was really impressive."
Sophie
"Forest school, forest school, forest school" It's 2 words that are growing increasingly popular in the childcare setting. I was a little shy to admit I wasn't 100% sure what was involved, for the children or even my self. There was no better chance than now.
A weekend later, and with the photos to reflect on, I now understand the concept of forest schools, its history and place in today's early years education.
Now lets get mucky !"
As well as creating a story telling circle, an art gallery, a fire pit and a den in the space of an afternoon, the clearing afforded us many more opportunities. For more information on affordances please see day eight. The art gallery area hosted an exhibition of muddy boggarts which the groups created using mud, sticks, plants....really anything the environment provided to us!
Laura