Upstream Forest School Welcomes You
What is Forest School?
The Forest School Community in the UK developed these principles and we think they are well expressed!
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FS is a long-term process of regular sessions, rather than a one-off or infrequent visits; the cycle of planning, observation, adaptation and review links each session.
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FS takes place in a wooded or natural environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.
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FS uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for being, development and learning.
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FS aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
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FS offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
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FS is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.
Lea (BEd)
Lea sees Forest School as a place where the whole child is welcomed. Seeing them challenge themselves, and be challenged by the group and by the natural environment, is a thrill. She also works as a guide, and loves running, fibre arts, XC skiing and reading!
Heidi
Heidi is passionate about experiential education and the power of land-based learning. She has worked in outdoor education for years and loves supporting kids in connecting to the land. She loves canoe trips, backpacking and skiing with friends and family.
Dawn (BEd)
Dawn (BEd) has worked with conservation organizations for many years. She values children being able to explore and observe at their pace to make sense of the world around them. She loves trail running, sea kayaking and mountain biking!
Rikia, (BA)
Rikia is a mom of two. She believes wholeheartedly in respectful parenting and creating experiences for children that foster a connection and compassion for nature. She loves jumping in the river, martial arts, gardening and preserving fruit.
Elena believes in the benefits of outdoor education for children with a range of abilities and interests. She sees the potential of the natural environment to encourage exploration, wonder, and emotional regulation. Elena loves to garden, bike, and play outside with her family.
Melanie (BEd)
Melanie is a mother of 4 children, who have all attended Upstream Forest School for many years. She is interested in creating the conditions for children to have agency through play, creativity, and exploration of the natural world. She likes to go camping, biking and hiking with her family.
Elena, MC
Jessie (BA)
Jessie loves to share her enthusiasm for the natural world with young children and to encourage a life-long connection to nature and playing outside. When she’s not at Forest School she can be found outside with her dogs and family. She loves to bike, ski, hike, craft and collect plants!
