What is Forest School? | Wildbound Forest School in Kent

Whittled Sweet Chestnut Foxes

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.

👉 Want to know more? Read our guide: “What Happens at a Forest School Session?”

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.

👉 Learn more: “How Forest School Supports Children’s Mental Health”

Physical Development

Climbing, balancing, digging, and using tools all contribute to strength, coordination, and motor skills.

👉 Learn more: “Physical Development Through Forest School”

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.

👉 Learn more: “Creativity and Imagination in Forest School”

Social Skills and Independence

Children learn to collaborate, communicate, and make decisions independently in a supportive environment.

👉 Learn more: “Benefits of Forest School for Children”

Why Outdoor Play Matters More Than Ever

Children are spending increasing amounts of time indoors and on screens. Highly scheduled and structured activities both inside and outside of school leave less time for free, unstructured play and experimentation.

Forest School provides space for children to reconnect with nature, develop resilience, and experience real-world challenges in a safe and supportive way.

👉 Read more: “Why Outdoor Play Is Important for Children”

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.

👉 Find out more: “Is Forest School Right for My Child?”

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

👉 Learn more: “Forest School for Home Educated Children”

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