Creating a forest for learning III

The first two editions of the "Creating a forest for learning" project, supported by the Audemars Piguet Foundation for Trees, have helped to establish regular outdoor learning sessions at 90% of the primary schools located within the National Forest’s scope (up from 15% in 2016). The project has been shown to have a significant positive impact on children’s wellbeing, attendance levels, behaviour and academic results, particularly in the network’s most disadvantaged schools.

Building on this success, The National Forest Company wants to extend the project to secondary schools, focusing on pupils with special educational needs or disabilities. This third phase will also see continued support for outdoor learning in primary schools, with a specific focus on schools that have not yet taken up the project (10%) as well as schools that are lacking in green spaces. This new edition is also considering the possibility of introducing outdoor learning modules at nurseries, where educators have expressed a real desire to bring children into contact with nature.

The National Forest Company’s approach includes tailor-made training, advice for teachers and support with setting up outdoor learning facilities. It benefits from strong partnerships with environmental specialists, which fosters the creation of green spaces brimming with biodiversity and the production of practical resources and teaching tools adapted to the curriculum. The aim of all these initiatives is to remove obstacles to outdoor learning, promote nature-related professions and enhance children’s and teenagers’ sense of personal worth by boosting their self-esteem, confidence and sense of achievement.