What exactly do children do at Forest School?

Forest School provides children the time, space and tools to develop hands-on learning experiences in a completely natural setting. It’s a long term program that supports the holistic development of children through play, exploration and supported “risk taking” - such as using hand tools and climbing trees. The learning environment is completely guided by children and observed by the Forest School Leader.

Do parents attend?

If your child is seven (7) years old or older you are welcome to drop them off for their School Holiday Program.

Children under seven (7) will require the active supervision of a parent or guardian

My child is almost seven (7) can I please drop them off to their school holiday program?

If they are attending with an older sibling OR if they attend Forest School regularly through the term, then you are welcome to drop them off. All that matters is that your child feels safe and secure in a familiar, wild environment.

WHAT AGE DO YOUR PROGRAMS SUIT BEST?

We are an ALL AGES program because intergenerational and peer-led play is so important for children - it’s how they figure out their place in the world. All children play and learn at a different pace and forest school means that children can explore things at their own speed and in their own time. It really is 'one size fits all' however, your level of involvement, as a guardian, may be higher with younger children.

CAN I BOOK IN FOR A FULL DAY?

Yes, of course! If you book back-to-back sessions our staff can watch your child during the lunch break free of charge. Just make sure you pack them lunch and send us an email to confirm you’d like this to happen.

What if my child is sick?

It happens! Just let us know 24hrs before your session if you need to self isolate due to sickness. We can organise a credit for your session.

WHAT IS THE ‘EQUITY DISCOUNT’?

We want to acknowledge that not all members of society are afforded the same opportunities. In an effort to create greater equity we wish to extend a reduced program rate to individual children who are from marginalised or single parent families. In doing this we hope to promote equal opportunity and inclusion for all children who would benefit from play based education. Please make use of these checkout codes if you wish to access this program: BIPOC, LGTBQIA or SINGLECAREGIVER

WHAT HAPPENS IF IT’S RAINING?

A bit of rain is nothing to be worried about - it’s just a part of nature’s process. Most importantly children LOVE wet weather! It provides wonderful learning experiences but also opportunities for PUDDLE JUMPIN’ and MUDSLIDES! Just make sure you (the carer) are also dressed appropriately (such as: waterproof jackets, pants and gumboots) so you’re comfortable.

WHAT IF THERE’S STORMS, FLOODING OR HIGH WINDS?

If the weather is deemed unsafe WE will contact YOU via email a MINIMUM of 2 hours before your session and you will be offered a credit. We’re REALLY good at reading the weather radar - trust us we work in a Forest!

My child has additional needs (such as ASD, ADHD, ODD) will your sessions be suitable?

The beauty and brilliance of Forest School is that it is completely child-led. Other than our initial safety briefing and “tool rules”, children require very little direction or instruction from Forest School Leaders. The learning environment that we create is guided by the child’s natural rhythm rather than rigid structure. Trust us, ALL children thrive in this kind of learning environment.

We can also work closely with your child and their carer (if they have one) at their first session to work out what feels comfortable and safe. We ask that you list any strategies and additional notes into their Medical Needs when booking. We also suggest arriving early to discuss strategies and needs with the Session Facilitator/Forest School Leader.

Can I use NDIS funding for your Programs?

Yes, many families who attend self manage claim NDIS funding through the following categories:

CORE

• Social Community and Civic Participation, assistance with daily life
• Support workers

CAPACITY BUILDING

• Increased Social and Community Participation, development of daily living and life skills

Can you run a private session for our group?

Yes, please get in touch with us to discuss dates, session types and prices.