School extends chances for outdoor learning
A SECRET wooded garden is housing new ‘Forest School’ lessons at Sheffield’s Westbourne School.
The forest school, situated in a part of the grounds known as the dell, has been opened to students at the independent school for children aged three to 16.
From science lessons to drama, say school leaders, working outside helps stimulate students’ experience.
“Even though we are at the heart of a busy community, we also have some incredible green space which we felt we had to utilise to its full capacity,” said Westbourne Junior School headteacher Jon Clark.
“The children find their outdoor lessons even more stimulating, which simply encourages them to even greater learning opportunities.”
Forest School is a national approach to outdoor play and learning, encouraging and inspiring children of all ages.
There has been huge uptake in the philosophy across the region over recent months, with headteachers saying a move away from the traditions of the classroom can bring a huge boost to young people’s learning.
Studies, funded by Defra and Natural England, have found that 95 per cent of teachers and pupils said outdoor learning made subjects more enjoyable, while 92 per cent said it improved pupils’ health and wellbeing.
In a survey of one school, more than four fifths of students, when asked to compare learning in the classroom versus outdoors, said they could concentrate well and do their best when working outside.
At Westbourne, school leaders say that lessons held in an outdoor environment provide motivation for students, and help them develop sound emotional and social skills.
It also encourages the children to access new skills, developing teamwork, perseverance and resilience.
“We are proud to be a part of the Forest School programme and look forward to developing this even further in the years to come,” added Mr Clark.