Forest School initiative to take root in Walsall
Date Published : 16 December 2008
An innovative Forest School is to take root in Walsall after the council’s countryside services team was successful in its bid to bring the scheme to the borough.
The Forest Education Initiative run through the Forestry Commission encourages people’s appreciation of their environment as well as building their self-esteem and confidence.
A typical Forest School programme works with a small group of people so that a rapport can be built up before the group enjoys regular visits to a woodland area. There, participants work through a variety of tasks with the emphasis on using partnerships to gain a greater understanding.
The Forestry Commission has announced that Walsall Council’s bid for a Forest School has been successful and countryside services staff will now be trained to become Forest School Leaders. The Forestry Commission funds the initiative but the amount it is awarding to Walsall has not yet been announced.
Brownhills Common, Rough Wood, Merrions Wood and Lodge Wood will be used for the scheme.
Councillor Louise Harrison, Walsall Council cabinet member for leisure, said: “The news that Walsall has been successful in its Forest School bid is a real achievement.
“This scheme is an inspirational learning experience for children, young people and adults who get so much out of the opportunities it provides.
“It is not only important to build a greater awareness of the environment but to equip people with the skills that can help them aspire and achieve and this initiative does just that.
“Our countryside rangers are passionate about the woodlands they work in and I know they will make fantastic Forest School Leaders.”
Forest Schools also benefit the rural economy as they teach people about woodland management and other skills which can lead to some pursuing countryside careers.