Distinguishing Character
Under Section 212M of the Education and Training Act 2020 The Forest School’s Distinguishing Characteristic has been approved as:
“Immersive Outdoor Education Where Nature Is Our Classroom.”
This means that our teaching and learning take place primarily in natural environments. Children spend significant time outdoors all year round, building resilience, confidence and learning through exploration and hands-on experience. This immersive approach is not an add on to our curriculum; it is who we are. Parents seeking to enrol their children at The Forest School must acknowledge and agree with our Distinguishing Character.
What This Looks Like In Practice:
Children learn predominantly outdoors, in all seasons and weather
The safety and wellbeing of all children is paramount. In the context of learning outdoors this includes children being well prepared with the right clothing to participate in all experiences. Students need to be able to manage themselves and their belongings so they are ready to learn. Every child must be able to participate safely as part of the group, follow teacher instructions, stay within boundaries and remain with the class during learning.
Nature is integrated across the full curriculum
The arts, literacy, numeracy, social learning and all other learning areas can take place by real tangible experiences where all the senses are engaged. Classrooms extend to forests, beaches, gardens and the wider community, with off site excursions being a regular part of the day. Full attendance and participation in outdoor learning is expected.
Children are device free and nature connected
Children learn best through direct engagement with people, places, and hands on materials. The Forest School offers an age appropriate education that honours childhood- where children learn and play actively, free from digital dependence or premature exposure to complex topics. Technology is used only for purposeful research or creative work, as a tool for learning, not an extension of the child.
Family Alignment and Principal Discretion
Families must demonstrate genuine alignment both in principle and in practice with our Distinguishing Character. This alignment is essential to preserve the integrity of our school and we require this before an offer of place is made. Where such alignment or agreement to our Distinguishing Character is not clear, the Principal has the discretion to decline enrolment.