Forest Schools

What is forest schools?
There are many definitions of Forest Schools, but the Pinpoint Adventure approach has many similarities with the Scandinavian outdoor philosophy of ‘Friluftsliv’; this simply translates as ‘Open Air Living’. We see the magic of Forest Schools, the enjoyment of using the outdoors as a classroom and the joy of succeeding, as central to the development of young people. Forest Schools is all about raising confidence and self-esteem, about learning by doing, becoming independent and yes – taking risks!

The list of possible activities involved in Forest Schools is huge, but a small selection would include: fire making, bread making, cooking, shelter making, wattle and daub, fairy gardens, outdoor art, rainbow walks, magic carpets, sensory activities, animal houses, using tools to make craft items, real leaf printing, Indian writing, scavenger hunts, un-nature trails, using Kelly Kettles to produce a hot drink – and many more.

Who can do it?
We provide forest schools activities for a full range of age groups; we currently work with several nurseries, early years groups and primary schools, whilst we can also provide forest schools activities for high school / secondary school pupils. We will be delighted to discuss the many options and huge range of activities that are possible. We can provide forest schools activity sessions for all ages and abilities, including adults and children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Where can I do this?
We deliver our Forest Schools activities on school sites; there doesn’t have to be woodland and we often use the school playing field. We regularly have open fires and cooking on such school sites, with absolutely no trace left of where we have been. So please just let us know if you already have a venue in mind (e.g. your school for a Forest Schools session) and we’ll be happy to bring our activities to your site (we will always do a site visit to discuss what is possible).

When can I do this?
Forest Schools can take place at any time of the year; indeed, a central philosophy of Forest Schools is that it can take place in all kinds of different weather conditions - although we do always plan our sessions in accordance with the prevailing weather conditions, thereby ensuring everyone has a fantastic time.

Why book with Pinpoint Adventure?
We hold Level 4 qualifications in Forest Schools and have extensive experience of delivering Forest Schools at all ages. We are hugely enthusiastic, knowledgeable and passionate practitioners and we always ensure that our Forest Schools session are both educational and fun. Pinpoint Adventure provides all the equipment for Forest schools – we hold a huge stock of high-quality equipment, enough for large group sizes. Pinpoint Adventure only uses qualified and experienced instructors with ratios appropriate to the activity session.

What do I need to bring?
A pair of walking boots or wellies, plenty of warm clothing, waterproofs, hat, gloves, a packed lunch and a water bottle. Although we will send you full guidance notes prior to your session.

How much does a forest schools session cost?

Forest schools sessions for primary schools and secondary schools prices are shown below.

These are prices for forest schools sessions with schools in Northumberland, Cumbria and County Durham, within 1 hour 15 minutes of Hexham, Northumberland. However, please just let us know if you would like to discuss a forest schools course at another venue (e.g. your own school).

We often provide forest schools courses at school sites (to save travel time and costs), we are happy to provide a FREE no obligation quote for a forest schools course at your primary or secondary school.

2024 pricing:
Description:
£200
Half day forest schools session, typically within the school day of either 9am to 11:30am or 12:30pm to 3pm.
£290
Full day forest schools session, typically within the school day from 9am to 3pm (with breaks and lunchtime).

How do I make a booking?
We would be delighted to provide you with a Forest Schools activities session - to make a booking or for more information please contact Tom on 07843762611 or via tom@pinpointadventure.com

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