Outdoor Learning vs Forest School: Which Is Right for Your Child?

Your child comes home with mud on their clothes and stories about building dens. But should you be looking at outdoor learning or Forest School? Both sound similar, but they work in very different ways.

This matters because outdoor education can change how your child learns, feels, and grows. The wrong choice might waste money or miss chances to help your child develop.

Here’s what you need to know about each approach.

What Is Outdoor Learning?

Outdoor learning takes regular lessons outside. Children might study maths by measuring trees or learn history at a local castle. It’s flexible and fits into normal school days.

England’s largest outdoor learning project found 72% of participants reported improved health and wellbeing. Children also showed better focus when they returned to indoor lessons.

Most schools can add outdoor learning without special training. Teachers use playgrounds, school gardens, or nearby parks. Some schools take weekly trips to woods or beaches.

Teachers report that children write better stories when they can observe and interact with their surroundings during outdoor literacy lessons. Studies also show children return to indoor lessons with improved focus and calmer behaviour.

Schools often start with simple changes. Science lessons in the playground. Art classes in the garden. Reading under trees. It costs very little and most teachers can do it safely.

What Makes Forest School Different?

Forest School follows strict rules and trained leaders. It’s not just about being outside. Children visit the same woodland site regularly and learn specific skills like fire lighting, tool use, and shelter building.

Only qualified Forest School practitioners can run sessions. They train for months and understand child development, risk management, and nature connection. Sessions happen in all weather and focus on what children choose to do.

Forest Schools specifically support confidence, independence, and development in language and communication. Children make their own decisions about activities and learn from natural consequences.

Parents often report significant changes in their children’s confidence and willingness to try new activities after attending Forest School sessions. Children develop stronger belief in their abilities and often teach skills they’ve learned to siblings and friends.

The approach comes from Scandinavian traditions. Children spend hours outdoors regardless of weather. They learn patience, resilience, and problem-solving through hands-on activities they choose themselves.

The Benefits Both Approaches Share

Both outdoor learning and Forest School improve children’s health and happiness. Research shows clear advantages over traditional indoor education.

Physical health improves quickly. Children move more, breathe fresh air, and develop stronger immune systems. Studies show significant improvements in children’s physical activity levels and reduced stress after just a few weeks of regular outdoor education.

Academic performance often increases too. Children who learn outdoors show better concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills. They transfer these benefits to indoor lessons and homework.

Social skills develop naturally. Children work together to build shelters or solve outdoor challenges. They learn to share resources, negotiate roles, and support classmates who need help.

Motor skills and coordination improve through climbing, balancing, and handling natural materials. Children develop better body awareness and physical confidence.

Mental health benefits appear within weeks. Children show reduced anxiety, improved mood, and better emotional regulation when they spend regular time in natural environments.

Which Approach Suits Your Child?

Consider your child’s personality and needs when choosing between outdoor learning and Forest School.

Outdoor learning works well for children who enjoy school but need more variety. It supports academic subjects while adding movement and fresh air. Most children adapt easily because lessons follow familiar patterns.

Forest School suits children who learn differently or struggle with traditional classrooms. Children with ADHD, anxiety, or low confidence often thrive in Forest School environments. The child-led approach helps them discover their strengths.

Age matters too. Younger children (3-7 years) often benefit more from Forest School’s play-based approach. Older children (8+ years) might prefer outdoor learning that connects to their school subjects.

Ask schools these questions:

• How often do outdoor sessions happen?
• Are leaders qualified for the specific approach?
• What happens in bad weather?
• How do you manage safety and risks?
• What does it cost and are there extra fees?

Forest School typically costs more because it requires qualified practitioners and smaller group sizes. Sessions might cost £15-30 per child per session. Outdoor learning usually costs less because regular teachers can lead it.

Consider location too. Forest School needs access to woodlands, which might mean transport costs or longer journeys. Outdoor learning can happen anywhere outdoors.

Making Your Decision

Both outdoor learning and Forest School offer real benefits over traditional indoor education. The choice depends on your child’s needs, your budget, and what’s available locally.

Outdoor learning gives children fresh air and movement while supporting academic subjects. It’s affordable and works for most children who enjoy school.

Forest School provides deeper nature connection and child-led learning. It costs more but can transform children who struggle with traditional education approaches.

Start by visiting schools that offer each approach. Watch sessions if possible. Talk to other parents whose children attend. Notice how your child responds to different outdoor experiences.

Remember that some children thrive with both approaches at different times. A child might benefit from outdoor learning during term time and Forest School during holidays.

The most important factor is finding an approach that helps your child grow, learn, and feel confident. Both outdoor learning and Forest School achieve this better than staying indoors all day.