Although it may appear that Forest Schools appeared in the UK in 1993, when the famous exchange visit with Bridgewater College took place, ideology and theory have actually been evolving for centuries into the benefits of outdoor learning. Below is a diagram of theorists and dates which have contributed to the formation of Forest Schools not only in the UK, but across the World. A glimmer of idealology in Forest school appeared in 1945 as destruction from World War 2 was vast, houses and streets destroyed (MacMillan, 2009). Britain was struggling to look after itself, however, the children found new playgrounds on the bomb sites. They would find hidden objects in the rubble, some natural others dangerous such as unexplored bombs! Moshenska (2014) states that the children viewed the bomb sites completely differently to adults, the destruction excited their creativity. Noble (2014) as cited in Moshenska (2014) retells their adventure stating “these ruins became our personal playground”. The rubble and ruin of the bombed sites gave freedom to the children to play, be adventurous, explore whilst all the while developing themselves physically, mentally and emotionally. Educational reformers saw these “playgrounds” as healthy play, was this the foundling seed in Britain’s outdoor learning environment?
Laura & Lisa
Diagram below by Cree & McCree (2012)
Laura & Lisa
Diagram below by Cree & McCree (2012)
Modern Theorists
Sue Palmer (2006)
Sue Palmer is a modern pioneer for children's rights in a Modern day world. Although she has written hundred of books, her book 'Toxic Childhood' gained fame by its concern for modern children; particularly the need for more outside play, the effects of a junk food diet, an increase of children staying indoors and playing with game consoles, and the consequences of a society trying to protect children from risk. (Toxic Childhood, 2006)
Although Palmer has had her critics; A writer for the Guardian slandered her opinion as being old fashioned; "I think we can place her golden age after the invention of childhood, most likely at some point between the 1870 Education Act and the onset of SATs" (Bennett, 2006) Palmer's book intends to protect our children, and realise the disadvantages that modern day living can have on their development. Palmer believes that "another worrying feature of contemporary play is that it seldom takes place outdoors" (Palmer, 2006, p. 229) Opinions such as this, and the increase in obesity and behavioural problems amongst children can allow families and practitioners to try to strike a little more balance in their lives, and Palmer has many tips and suggestions in her books and website: http://www.suepalmer.co.uk
Laura
Sue Palmer (2006)
Sue Palmer is a modern pioneer for children's rights in a Modern day world. Although she has written hundred of books, her book 'Toxic Childhood' gained fame by its concern for modern children; particularly the need for more outside play, the effects of a junk food diet, an increase of children staying indoors and playing with game consoles, and the consequences of a society trying to protect children from risk. (Toxic Childhood, 2006)
Although Palmer has had her critics; A writer for the Guardian slandered her opinion as being old fashioned; "I think we can place her golden age after the invention of childhood, most likely at some point between the 1870 Education Act and the onset of SATs" (Bennett, 2006) Palmer's book intends to protect our children, and realise the disadvantages that modern day living can have on their development. Palmer believes that "another worrying feature of contemporary play is that it seldom takes place outdoors" (Palmer, 2006, p. 229) Opinions such as this, and the increase in obesity and behavioural problems amongst children can allow families and practitioners to try to strike a little more balance in their lives, and Palmer has many tips and suggestions in her books and website: http://www.suepalmer.co.uk
Laura
Chris Quigley (2011)
Quigley (2011) created "The Dangerous Curriculum" to inspire boys, to take more interest in learning by taking lessons outside of the four walls of the classroom. Quigley (2011) curriculum helps pupils overcome their weaknesses and play to their strengths. Quigley (2011) believes that children learn better when a sense of danger is involved. Quigley's (2011) ideas are simple yet effective with schools incorporating his curriculum with positive outcomes.
Have any of your schools linked this curriculum into forest school?
Lisa
Are there any modern theorists who inspire you in the Early Years Sector?
Quigley (2011) created "The Dangerous Curriculum" to inspire boys, to take more interest in learning by taking lessons outside of the four walls of the classroom. Quigley (2011) curriculum helps pupils overcome their weaknesses and play to their strengths. Quigley (2011) believes that children learn better when a sense of danger is involved. Quigley's (2011) ideas are simple yet effective with schools incorporating his curriculum with positive outcomes.
Have any of your schools linked this curriculum into forest school?
Lisa
Are there any modern theorists who inspire you in the Early Years Sector?