The FOLA is designed to build a connection with the natural world which boosts mental and physical health and wellbeing. It facilitates the learning of new skills through a person-centred approach, grounded in the forest school ethos. Young people benefit from creating their own programme of learning in line with their own interests and skills while being encouraged to manage and evaluate risks. It is truly holistic learning and each person has come out of the programme with more confidence.
Every one of the 14 participants said that their learning experience was more relaxing and it was easier to learn being in a non-pressured, outdoor environment.
Confidence was built around the safety measures agreed by the group themselves and supported by trained facilitators. Participants presented differently and were often unrecognisable to teachers in a very positive way – speaking, engaging, feeling happier and motivated in this environment. People who found it hard to engage in traditional classroom learning due to the size of classes, the noise, neurodiversity or poor mental health found a place to feel safe and share experiences motivating them to participate, to try new things and learn at their own pace. Attendance too went up for some pupils. Some of the practical activities undertaken will leave a lasting legacy such as helping to uncover ancient pathways created almost 200 years ago on the Riddell Estate which had been covered over with thick vegetation.
