What is Forest School? | Wildbound Forest School in Kent
- Katy Davies
- Apr 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 20
The Power of Outdoor Learning for Children
Forest school is a child centred approach to learning that takes place in a
natural environment, where children are given freedom to explore, take risks, and develop confidence through hands on experiences.
At Wildbound Forest School in Kent, we offer engaging holiday clubs and home education sessions designed to support children's wellbeing, creativity and development through meaningful time in nature.
What is Forest School?
Forest School is an educational approach that originated in Scandinavia and focuses on regular, long-term learning in woodland or natural settings. It is built around the belief that children develop invaluable skills through play, exploration, and supported risk-taking.
Sessions are led by trained practitioners who guide rather than direct, allowing children to follow their interests and develop independence at their own pace.
Forest School nurtures the whole child—supporting emotional, social, and physical development alongside practical outdoor skills.
What Happens at a Forest School Session?
Every session is unique, but children can expect a mix of structured opportunities and free exploration. Activities may include:
Den building and shelter creation
Fire lighting and campfire cooking
Safe tool use (such as whittling)
Nature crafts and creative play
Exploring woodland, wildlife, and seasonal changes
Nature Connectedness activities
Children are encouraged to take appropriate risks, solve problems, and work together—building confidence and resilience naturally.
Benefits of Forest School for Children
Forest School offers a wide range of benefits that support children’s development in a holistic and engaging way whilst encouraging them to build life long connections to the outdoors.
Emotional Wellbeing
Time spent in nature helps reduce stress and anxiety while supporting emotional regulation and confidence.
Physical Development
Climbing, balancing, digging, and using tools all contribute to strength, coordination, and motor skills.
Creativity and Imagination
With no fixed outcomes, children are free to invent, create, and explore their ideas using an abundance of loose parts and natural materials.
Social Skills and Independence
Children learn to collaborate, communicate, and make decisions independently in a supportive environment.
Is Forest School Right For Your Child?
Forest School is suitable for a wide range of children, including those who:
Thrive outdoors or struggle in traditional classroom settings
Need support with confidence or anxiety
Enjoy hands-on, practical learning
Are home educated and looking for social opportunities
Our sessions are inclusive, nurturing, and adaptable to individual needs.
Forest School for Home Educated Children in Kent
Wildbound offers dedicated Forest School sessions for home educated children, providing opportunities to:
Build friendships and social confidence
Engage in meaningful, hands-on learning
Complement home education with outdoor experiences
Forest School in Kent - Wildbound
Wildbound Forest School provides high-quality outdoor learning experiences for children aged 5+
Our sessions are led by a qualified teacher and experienced teaching assistant, both fully trained Forest School practitioners. We create a safe, supportive environment where children can take risks, grow in confidence, and develop a lifelong connection to nature.
Book a Wildbound Forest School Session
If you’re looking for a nurturing, engaging alternative to traditional activities, Wildbound Forest School offers a unique opportunity for your child to learn, grow, and thrive outdoors.
👉 Enquire today to book a session or find out more or join the conversation on Whatsapp
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