2008

The sun has put its hat on!

We've had a disappointing start to 2008. We were very excited by the possibility of working with a few schools who really warmed to Forest School and wanted to equip their teachers to run sessions independently. We applied for funding to cover our costs of working with the children and the staff - and producing a resource pack. However, we heard in the Spring that our bid had been unsuccessful. As I write this at the end of April we have a few days booked, but much reduced from last year. We'll just keep looking for money!

2007

15 Penwith Primary Schools

2007 was our busiest year to date. Green Learning spent 30 days with children from 15 local schools. Pupils from Leedstown, Trythall, Nancledra, St Just, Ludgvan, Mousehole, Alverton, Heamoor, St Madderns, St Levan, St Uny, Newlyn, Gulval, Penpol, and St Erth each enjoyed one or two days Forest School experience. From Reception class to Year 6, over 600 children, teachers and parents have had an introduction to typical Forest School activities. All days took place in local woodland and many schools have visited the community woods at Crenver Grove, near Leedstown, thanks to the hospitality of the Sustainable Trust ( www.sustrust.co.uk). As usual, accompanying adults have been again delighted by the energy and initiative shown by the children. We would like to thank them all (children and adults) for their support.

Read their comments under Feedback!

2006

Heamoor Primary School, Summer Term

21 pupils from last year's reception class enjoyed regular woodland days at nearby Trengwainton Gardens. The children visited for one day each week throughout the summer term. Structures activities linked to curriculum were interspersed with games and snacks and packed lunch under the colourful parachute. Below are a few of their teacher's comments:

"The freedom and risk taking developed independence and confidence which children brought back to the classroom."

"Having ownership of their learning and taking part in activities which developed their curiosity, created much more motivated learners."

St Erth Cluster (St Erth, Gwinear, Gulval and Nancledra Primary Schools) Summer Term

Children from these schools enjoyed days at Crenver Grove woods, near Leedstown. Teachers reported:

"The content of their creative writing changed dramatically once they had experienced the practical aspects of
lighting fires and building shelters."

"A chance for children to express themselves freely without the constraints of the classroom. They are learning so many skills that are important: working together, looking after themselves and others and not to mention respecting the forest and all it has to offer. A great day to see your children in a completely different light!"

St Ives College, Summer Term

As part of their Activity Week, upto 20 students a day learnt and practised basic bushcraft skills in the beautiful Steeple Woods behind the school. Some enjoyed the day enough to return later in the week to demonstrate their new abilities to friends.

Trelya YPDP, Spring

Nine young people from Trelya's YPDP (Young People's Development Programme) visited local woods for the day to learn survival skills and a range of wood crafts. They had a variety of tasks to complete, including building a fire without the use of lighters or matches and then cooking lunch for everyone over it. Furniture was 'made' from trees and logs in the area and they even made their own mallets whilst learning to use other tools.