Our Approach
Langley Forest School follows the Forest Canada pedagogy. This approach has a few main pillars that guide the materials we choose, activities we plan and how we facilitate learning.
We believe that these learning approaches help foster specific outcomes for children.
Our Approach
Educators set out invitations and provocations that spark interest in learning. The child decides what interests them at that time. Educators "loiter with intent", watching for opportunities to support a deepened understanding (scaffolding learning) while not interfering.
Children learn best through undirected, free play. This allows children to use their imagination, creativity, and gross motor skills while they develop communication and problem-solving skills. Curiosity leads the way as educators support children in learning how to navigate friendships.
Supported "risky" play
Langley Forest School supports "risky play", sometimes called "rough & tumble play". Educators are trained to safely support children in taking risks such as running fast downhill, climbing high up trees, using tools, wading in water or engaging in battle/big body play with other children.
Place-based
Langley Forest School is NOT a roaming programme because we believe there is great value in observing the same surroundings throughout changing seasons and weather conditions. This fosters a love, and feeling of ownership of our basecamp and "home space" that results in natural stewardship.
Environment as the teacher
Children are competent and capable learners. Educators are facilitators that support children to identify, co-manage and navigate the environment around them. Whenever possible, natural materials like wood, clay, twine and rocks are used to support gross and fine motor learning.
Our Outcomes
Using a child-emergent, play-based, place-based approach where the environment is the teacher, we believe children will:
-
Develop reflexive and inquisitive thinking along with creative problem-solving approaches in ‘real’ situations
-
Develop communication, team-building and collaborative working skills
-
Develop resilience and adaptability
-
Become good at assessing situations and identifying hazards versus risks
-
Develop self-awareness, confidence and self-esteem
-
Grow to love, appreciate and respect their forest, flora and fauna
-
Develop a lifelong love of the outdoors, becoming environmental stewards
-
Develop gross and fine motor skills, recognizing and admiring the body’s limitations and abilities
-
Experience both physical and mental health benefits
-
Grow to be accepting, kind, empathetic, fostering respect for others in a team environment
-
Develop a rich foundation of skills that naturally support numeracy and literacy through hands on experiential learning
