Toucan Forest School – The Power of Nature for all Learners
We believe in the power of nature-based education to support the unique needs of all children, not only neurodiverse learners. Our forest school in Newcastle provides a safe and inclusive environment where children can learn, play, and thrive in nature. It is based on an innovative educational model that takes learning outdoors, allowing children to explore and engage with the natural environment. This sensory-rich setting provides a holistic learning experience that supports their social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Not All Classrooms Have Four Walls
Spending time in nature has been shown to have a range of therapeutic benefits for neurodivergent children, including reduced anxiety, improved focus, and enhanced sensory integration. Through hands-on activities such as nature walks, outdoor play, and sensory exploration, children develop a deeper connection to the natural world while building essential skills and knowledge.
Our unique setting provides opportunities for cooperative play, teamwork, and communication, helping children develop social skills in a natural, unstructured environment where they feel at ease.
Benefits of the Toucan Forest School
Improved Sensory Processing
The natural environment is rich with sensory input, from the feel of soil underfoot to the sound of birdsong. These experiences help children process sensory information in a calming and therapeutic way, improving their ability to engage with the world around them.
Enhanced Emotional Regulation
Being outdoors has a proven calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety levels. Through activities like mindfulness, teamwork, and nature play, children learn strategies to manage their emotions and build resilience in a supportive setting.
Increased Self-Confidence
Forest school encourages children to take on new challenges, from climbing trees to solving problems independently. As they succeed in these tasks, their confidence grows, helping them believe in their abilities both in and out of the forest.
A Greater Connection to Nature
Exploring the outdoors fosters a deep appreciation for the environment. This connection helps children feel grounded and teaches them the importance of preserving the natural world for future generations.
Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills
Activities like building shelters, navigating trails, or creating art from natural materials require creative thinking and teamwork. These hands-on experiences sharpen problem-solving skills and encourage resourcefulness.
A Diverse and Exciting Curriculum
Every child at Toucan Forest School benefits from a curriculum that blends academic learning with outdoor exploration. This approach keeps children engaged, making learning fun and relevant to their unique strengths and interests.
A Day at Forest School
Each day at Toucan Forest School is an adventure in learning and discovery. From the moment children step outside, they are encouraged to explore, experiment, and engage with the world around them.
Here’s what a typical day might look like:
- Morning: Yoga and mindfulness to start the day, followed by building shelters or crafting with natural materials.
- Midday: Storytime around the fire pit or nature-inspired lessons on plants and animals.
- Afternoon: Free exploration, teamwork games, and sensory activities to wind down.
By blending education with exploration, children can discover new interests and develop essential skills in a setting that feels like home.
The Forest School has been a transformative experience for the children involved. Motivated, engaged and happy are words I would use to describe the children as they participate in a range of activities. This includes a range of creative activities to develop deep thinking, reflection, problem solving and greater independence. From my conversations with the children taking part, I know how much they enjoy and look forward to the day. I have observed a noticeable impact on their social interaction skills as they collaborate and work as part of a wider team.
We’ve seen a huge benefit in sending pupils to Toucan forest school, it has benefitted them socially and emotionally. The staff at Toucan have been really helpful in sharing strategies that we can use for the rest of the week in school and we find he returns in a much more calm and settled manner the day after he has been. We would highly recommend Toucan Education.
The Science Behind Nature-Based Learning
Nature-based education has been shown to improve wellbeing and learning outcomes, especially for neurodivergent children. Studies highlight how outdoor settings help reduce stress, improve attention spans, and promote physical and emotional development. At Toucan Forest School, we harness these benefits to create a nurturing and empowering environment for every child.
A Day at Forest School
Each day at Toucan Forest School is an adventure in learning and discovery. From the moment children step outside, they are encouraged to explore, experiment, and engage with the world around them.
Here’s what a typical day might look like:
Morning
Yoga and mindfulness to start the day, followed by building shelters or crafting with natural materials.
Midday
Storytime around the fire pit or nature-inspired lessons on plants and animals.
Afternoon
Free exploration, teamwork games, and sensory activities to wind down.
By blending education with exploration, children can discover new interests and develop essential skills in a setting that feels like home.
Frequent Asked Questions
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What is a forest school?
A forest school is an innovative educational model that takes learning outdoors. It provides children with opportunities to explore, play, and engage with the natural environment while supporting their social, emotional, and cognitive development.
Who is the Toucan Forest School for?
Our forest school is designed for neurodivergent children aged 5–15, including those with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). It offers a sensory-rich and supportive environment where every child can thrive.
How often can my child attend?
Children can attend as little as half a day per week or up to several days, depending on their needs and your family’s preferences. Forest school attendance can also be combined with our flexi school program for a more comprehensive educational experience.
What kind of activities do children do at forest school?
Activities vary each day but may include nature walks, shelter building, storytelling, sensory exploration, teamwork games, and art using natural materials. Every activity is designed to engage children and support their holistic development.
How does forest school benefit neurodivergent children?
Spending time in nature helps reduce anxiety, improve focus, enhance sensory integration, and build self-confidence. The unstructured, child-led approach allows children to develop essential skills in a relaxed and supportive setting.
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Is forest school suitable for children who struggle with traditional classrooms?
Absolutely. Forest school offers an alternative learning environment that caters to the individual needs of neurodivergent children. The outdoor setting provides freedom and flexibility, helping children feel more comfortable and engaged.
What qualifications do your staff have?
Our team includes experienced educators and specialists trained in supporting neurodivergent children, along with specialists trained in forest school education. They bring expertise in SEND education and a passion for nature-based learning to every session.
What should my child bring to forest school?
Children should wear weather-appropriate clothing that they can move comfortably in, along with sturdy shoes or boots. We recommend packing a water bottle, snacks, and any personal sensory aids your child uses.
How is progress tracked at forest school?
We closely monitor each child’s development and share regular updates with parents. These include reports on academic, social, and emotional progress, as well as milestones achieved during their time at forest school.
How do I apply or schedule a visit?
It’s easy to get started! Contact us to arrange a visit or speak with our team about your child. Once enrolled, we’ll continually assess your child’s needs to support their growth and development.
Start your journey today, speak with our team!
Everyone wants the best for their children, by speaking with our specialist support team you’ll be starting that journey. We can guide you through the process and explain how we can support you and your child.
