Forest School can help teenagers develop confidence, self-esteem, and a healthy connection with their environment and with other people. It helps to develop social and emotional skills that will prepare them for adulthood.
Our sessions run from 10.30–3.30 on Fridays, in our purpose-built woodland camp in the Surrey Hills, on the Birtley Estate near Bramley. We take teenagers from 13 and upwards.
”It's so important for our young people to have a safe space to socialise, learn some new skills
and above all have fun!
”They love it and always have a great time whatever the weather. They love the freedom, adventure and chance to get dirty. They always come home buzzing (and in need of a bath!) They love the staff and being outdoors all day.
What we get up to
Every day in the woods is different, but our focus is always on exploring our environment and learning new skills. Topics we cover include:
as well as social and communication skills, teamwork, and lots of laughter.
”Watching young people gain confidence and learn skills while working together, and having fun, is the best part of the job.
Our team – Jonnie and Liz
Jonnie: I’m passionate about outdoor life and a bit of a nature and wildlife geek! I have practised bushcraft and survival techniques for the majority of my life and really enjoy foraging and al fresco cooking. It gives me great joy to share these skills with young people and adults alike. Over the years I have run my own business, run a Forest School at Skillway, run an Explorer Scout Unit and I am a Duke of Edinburgh’s Supervisor and Assessor.
Liz: I have been working with children of all ages since 2009, I’m a qualified Early Years Educator and Forest School leader and since 2015 have run Forest School programmes for Early Years settings, holiday clubs, schools and home educated groups. I’ve also worked for Sussex Wildlife Trust delivering their Nature Tots and Wildlife Watch programmes. I’m treasurer for the Sussex Forest School Association group, and involved in organising networking and CPD events for local Forest School practitioners. In my spare time I enjoy camping and live music and combine all of these passions by volunteering at music festivals with Woodland Tribe, helping children to build their own adventure playgrounds
Social benefits
the social benefits of Forest School are well documented. They include
Working with tools and fire can help teenagers learn to take responsibility and manage risk. This can lead to increased self-confidence and self-worth.
Forest School can help teenagers develop emotional awareness and a positive relationship with nature.
Forest School can help teenagers develop social and emotional skills that can be applied to other areas of their lives.
Forest School can help teenagers develop physical motor skills through outdoor activities.
Forest School can help teenagers develop a deep connection with nature. Research shows that spending time outdoors can improve mood and reduce stress.
How to book
You can book a block of 5 sessions or a half-price introductory session here: book a place
Remember
Please read our Terms and Conditions here.
”You have given my daughter days that she will treasure
