Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council Health and Recreation Department
Forest School Programme
FOREST SCHOOL PROGRAMME
These varied sessions encourage learning in a woodland environment from hands-on experiences, this can range from outdoor play, using tools, building dens, fire lighting, cooking, woodland games and crafts and other outdoor activities which are both designed by the leader and instigated by the children themselves.
The Forest School Programme provides opportunities for children, young people and communities, with different abilities and cultural backgrounds, to explore our natural environment, play, learn and socialise together. As the children journey through Forest School, building a sense of independence, high self-esteem and social/communication skills are important parts of the programme as well as developing a broader understanding of the natural environment in which they live.
MORE INFORMATION
What is the Forest School Programme?
The Forest Schools Programme supports outdoor, nature-based learning that focuses on the holistic development of the child, using this medium to support their developmental needs, encourage conversation and build relationships between people in outdoor natural spaces regardless of ability or the community in which they live.
- Providing opportunities for children, young people and communities to explore together and learn about each other through dialogue in outdoor spaces.
- Promoting and improving the relationships between and across communities through dialogue in a safe alternative and creative space.
- Enhancing children’s capacity for positive development by giving them access to the broadest range of environments and play opportunities.
- Using practical and playful activities to encourage children and young people to explore their understanding of difference.
What is the aim of the Forest School Programme?
The Forest School Programme is open to participants from all communities.
The Forest School uses natural resources for inspiration, to enable ideas and to encourage intrinsic motivation. The focus is on promoting positive physical and mental health and wellbeing and providing opportunities for all participants of the programme to take part in activities designed to raise awareness and facilitate dialogue; this is achieved through delivery of the programme in green and woodland environments.
Are there any prerequisites for the programme?
- Participants must be aged 7-12 years.
- Participants must be able to commit to all six sessions
When does the Forest School programme take place?
FOREST SCHOOL SCHEDULE. July – August 2022
Oxford Island – (Summer Camp)
| Age 7 to 12 years | |||
| Session | Date | Time | Location |
| 1 Summer Camp | 25/07/2022 | 10am – 1pm | Oxford Island |
| 2 Summer Camp | 27/07/2022 | 10am – 1pm | Oxford Island |
| 3 Summer Camp | 29/07/2022 | 10am – 1pm | Oxford Island |
| 4 Summer Camp | 01/08/2022 | 10am – 1pm | Oxford Island |
| 5 Summer Camp | 03/08/2022 | 10am – 1pm | Oxford Island |
| 6 Summer Camp | 05/08/2022 | 10am – 1pm | Oxford Island |
How much does the programme cost?
The programme costs £90 per child. If there are two or more children from the same family address the cost is £80 per child.
What is the closing date for bookings?
Once the class is full registration closes.
Places are limited and will be offered on a first come basis.