Parent Resources
FAQ:
What is Forest School?
A Forest School provides children with regular and repeated access to natural spaces, fostering experimental, inquiry-based, and play-based learning.
Where do Forest Schools take place?
They are held in outdoor environments such as forests, parks, or nature reserves. All of our sites have some sort of shelter from the weather when needed as well as access to a bathroom and/or porta-potty.
What are the benefits of Forest School?
Benefits include improved social skills, confidence, motivation, and a deeper connection to nature. Many of these skills are extremely beneficial in other aspects of their learning (ie school and/or extra-curriculars).
Who teaches Forest School?
Our staff come with a wide-spread education background, experience working with children, and a passion for the outdoors. They focus on child-led and interest-based learning while connecting with each child. Their passion for the environment shines through while providing an educational program for children.
Our ratios vary for age group, but a common structure is one staff member for every 5-7 children.
Can my child attend Public School along with Forest School?
Yes! Teachers and principals are very supportive of the program. Just notify your teacher and the admin staff at your school that your child will be away each week.
Does Forest School follow a curriculum?
At Last Forest Schools use an inquiry-based and student-led approach rather than a strict curriculum. By going off the children’s interests, we find we cover a lot of the curriculum naturally throughout the day.
What age groups can participate?
We have programs ranging from 18 months to 12 old. The programs for toddlers/preschoolers are half day programs and ages 4-12 (school age) are full days.
Are you really outside all day?
As much as we can be! We take precautions during severe weather (ie thunderstorms). We also utilize an indoor space during the winter to warm up, change wet clothing, and eat lunches without mittens. Otherwise we are outside building resiliency and dancing in the rain!
Does my child have to attend every week?
Due to our low ratios (ranging 1:5-1:8 teacher to students) we do require consistent enrollment each week. However, some families will share spaces. Reach out if this is something you and another family would like to do!
Do I have to commit from September - June?
Not at all. You can register at any point during the year provided we have the space. Once you register that space is yours through until the end of June. However, we do have two times of the year to withdraw; Christmas Break and March Break.
How much does it cost? How does payment work?
The cost ranges depending on the program ($27.50-$65/child/day). You can find the pricing for each program under the school of interest (tab above). Payment is done monthly. When you sign up you will pay for September (or the remainder of that month if it’s mid-year). Then the first of each month you will pay for the days within that month.
What if I can't afford the program?
We never want anyone to feel as though they can’t attend our program. We offer a sliding scale option upon checkout. We also offer a bursary program. Please reach out if you are looking for assistance.
How is safety ensured?
At Last Forest Schools programming have trained staff, strict supervision, and emergency procedures in place. Click the parent handbook link below to find out more about our policies and procedures.
Have more questions? Send us an email!
info@atlastforestschools.com
