This in from the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT), in their own words. Ed
Kerry Hiscock, of Lugley Bugs Childcare, received accredited Level 3 Forest School training from the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT) in 2014. Kerry submitted evidence to the Government on the benefits of Forest School, using the example of Jamie – a child in her care who has now blossomed.
Impressed by her work, a government minister has invited Kerry to share her experience with him and other childcare professionals at a London event in March. She’s also making the case for more government funding for disadvantaged children to be able to access this kind of essential support.
Kerry Hiscock, of Lugley Bugs Childcare said:
“Childminders have a key role to play in children’s development – we can get young children ready not just for school, but also for life. The Trust’s great Forest School training helped me develop a programme that I’ve seen help children like Jamie.”
Kathy Grogan, HIWWT Education Officer said:
“Forest School is a unique child-led learning process which supports all areas of learning and development and gives children unrivalled access to nature throughout the seasons. As practitioners we’re able increase children’s self-confidence, self-esteem and resilience, enabling them to become motivated, independent learners.
“It has been thrilling to assess last year’s cohort of trainees delivering Forest School in placements across the Island, and to see local children reaping the benefits. I’m very proud of all of them and this national recognition is a credit to Kerry’s work.”
Case Study: Jamie
Jamie, a two-year-old boy, was shy and nervous around adults and other children – often preferring to play by himself. Thanks to Kerry’s work and her HIWWT Forest School expertise, Jamie blossomed into an active and chatty child. Within two months of outdoor play with a small group of other boys, Jamie was confidently talking with other children and adults as they chopped wood, made boats and floated them on the stream, and leading their activities.
All the children attending Kerry’s Forest School sessions have developed their confidence, communication and physical skills – meaning they are now all at or above where they should be.
Image: © With kind permission of HIWWT
