Irish Forest School Association Annual Gathering 2022

Irish Forest School Association Annual Gathering 2022

Jun 1, 2022 | Out in Nature, Sustainability, Tree Planting

 

Irish Forest School Association Annual Gathering 2022

I had the pleasure of going to the IFSA annual gathering in Cavan in the amazing Tanagh Outdoor Education and Training Centre.

 

Over 60 Forest School leaders gathered from all over Ireland to skillshare and pass on wisdom and knowledge around the campfire.

Our Chairperson Joan Whelan presented her findings from her PhD study … on her findings on the crucial role that trained Forest leaders play in making quality Forest Schools accessible to school children and the importance of introducing children to nature.

And I learned new skills about how to make your Forest School more inclusive from the experienced SEN teachers and Forest School practitioners Sarah Whelan and Sinead Walsh.

The Merry Month of May in Milford, Donegal

The Merry Month of May in Milford, Donegal

May 26, 2022 | Claire Samways, Out in Nature

Packed my van with hazel sticks and headed to Donegal on an adventure with Mr Moss to build a den in a magical location in the wilds of Donegal.

Brought all my tools and feel like Edward the Scissor hand!!!

The Merry Month of May in Milford, Donegal

And started the creative process… an ‘A’ frame up and lots of lashings.

The Merry Month of May in Milford, Donegal

Starting to take shape …using natural materials to blend the den in.

The Merry Month of May in Milford, Donegal

Moss loving the finished den … magical!

The Merry Month of May in Milford, Donegal
Magical Moments in the Dark with The Honeybees Forest School

Magical Moments in the Dark with The Honeybees Forest School

Dec 8, 2021 | Claire Samways, Out in Nature, The Honeybees Forest School

Magical moments in the dark with the Honeybees Forest School at Glasswater wood. No stopping us having fun – head torches on and all wrapped up.

Using their imagination to create unique mandalas, all inspired by nature – this group were fascinated by how the planets circled around the sun and they created their own solar system with great discussions forming whilst creating these beautiful pieces of work – learning outdoors at its best.

Den building in the dark – one of my favourite things.

It was magical to watch the kids work together and figure things out to build their woodland hide out and secret place.

Then they spent the rest of the session in it making up spooky ghost stories – story telling at its best.