Support for Forest Scools

Welcome to the Nicholsons Forest School Scheme At Nicholsons, our impact upon the planet is at the forefront of all we do. We undertake work with respect and consideration for the present and future health of the environment. In line with our committment to sustainability, we are deeply passionate about supporting future generations - our next climate champions, in fostering a love of nature. We have seen first hand how childhood access to the natural world can foster a lifelong appreciation for the environment and, in turn, become the next generation to protect it. One fantastic way to do this is through Forest School.

What is Forest School? Originating in Scandinavia, where nature and movement are seen as crucial to children’s learning and development, Forest Schools provide young children with an education ouside of the traditional classroom setting. Since the first UK Forest School was established in 1995, this style of learning has continued to grow in popularity and is now used nationwide. Focused on creating holistic benefits for learners, Forest School allows children to experience real-world problems and apply learned experiences, skills and solutions to new situations and environments. This form of outdoor education allows for risks and challenges to be explored through hands-on learning and play, including the taking of social and emotional risks. Forest School is governed by six core principles: • To be a long-term process of regular sessions • To take place in woodland or the natural environment • To use a range of learner-centred processes • To promote holistic development • To provide opportunities to take supported risks • To be run by qualified Forest School practitioners The Forest School Association is the professional body and UK wide voice for Forest School.

Dear Liz,

I wanted to write and say what a pleasure it was to work with David and the team at Iffley Academy Special School this week.

This is the second time I have had the opportunity to collaborate with Nicholson’s on a large-scale Forest School Project and to have my designs realised by such a great team.

Working alongside David on this project enabled me to learn from his expertise and with our combined experiences, I feel we are making something quite special for the students at Iffley.

With the support of both The Marks Family Charitable Trust, this time around, and Nicholsons, the school will soon have a remarkable, purpose-built site on which the students can take part and benefit from all that the Forest School programme brings. 

There is lots of excitement from both students and staff!

Thank you for your support and also thanks to your wonderful team.

Best wishes,

Bryony McCombe