Category

School Programmes

Forest School

Forest School at DSCETNS

Forest School at DSCETNS

By Paula Henihan

 

I am excited to be bringing a regular Forest School session to DSCETNS next year. This will involve taking the children outside for a 90 minute class fortnightly. The classes will be aimed at learning through nature in a safe but challenging environment.

Forest school is a formalised approach to learning that first emerged in Scandinavia in the 1950s, and has since gained in popularity throughout Europe, North America, and in recent years Ireland, with over twenty Forest School groups currently active nationally.

Outdoor learning like Forest School complements the existing classroom curriculum and allows children the opportunity to develop confidence, self-esteem, and practical skills through hands-on learning in a natural environment.

Forest School Activities

In Forest School at DSCETNS you can expect loads of fun activities and adventures like;

  • building dens and other structures
  • storytelling
  • games and imaginative play
  • nature crafts
  • using tools for wood projects
  • scavenger hunts, and other adventures. ​

Important features include the use of a woodland setting over a sustained period of time, a low child/adult ratio, close ties to regular curriculum objectives, and freedom to explore the senses.

I’m a Level 3 qualified ​Irish Forest School Association​ leader, and h​ave taught Forest School with the children in Stoneybatter ETNS.​ I am still amazed by the excitement, peer support, creativity and wonder that the sessions bring out in the kids. Research shows that children who spend time in natural environments undertake more diverse, creative and imaginative play. This improves their sense of belonging and environmental stewardship.​ Physical skills are also improved by the challenge of dealing with rough terrain, and by learning to handle tools and equipment.

Further Information

Here are some resources if you’re interested in learning more:

I’m delighted to be bringing the Forest School ethos to the kids next year.

Thanks Niamh for initiating Forest School at DSCETNS. Watch this space!

After-School Club Proposals

The Board of Management of Dublin South City Educate Together National School are keen to facilitate an after-school club for children on school premises in the coming school year 2019-2020. Interested parties should make their proposal to the BOM before 4pm on 3rd May 2019, outlining the child-care services they would provide for the children of DSCETNS. For further information, please call 086 776 8394.

Edit: Thank you to all those providers who have sent in proposals to date. Proposals are now closed. The BOM will be announcing the successful after-school child care provider as soon as possible.