Forest Schools Case Studies - Behavioral issues
Clients name and details: The Long Sandall Centre, Barnby Road, Doncaster, DN24RG
Project description including Project aim/purpose
This project provided alternative provision for challenging, year 9 pupils from the Key stage three PRU. A structured 3 day a week Forest School programme was developed for these pupils using a local woodland to fulfil the demands of the National Curriculum whilst at the same time encouraging social and emotional development.
Duration
Initially 30 weeks, extended to cover a final term.
Number and ages/background of children involved
6 pupils started the course with 5 staying to completion. All had been excluded from school.
Positive Outcomes
The length and duration of the programme allowed all pupils to develop in a positive way with some marked changes in behaviour being recorded as a result, both at home and in the PRU
Feedback
"Learning the Archimedes way is innovative, creative and engaging. Structured activities in an outdoor woodland environment serve to remove some of the boundaries, which in the past had inhibited out disengaged youngsters from learning."
"as weeks went by my office slowly became full of wind chimes, hurdles, chiseled artifacts, kazoos etc. These proud pupils constantly displayed new found confidence and skills, shared their successes for the first time, aware of their new talents but oblivious to their new found social development."
"Archimedes have been flexible enough to constantly adapt and respond to changing moods, interests and needs in order to maximise pupil engagement and success."
Interesting and Unique Facts about the Project
One participant is going to come back as an assistant leader on next years project. All clients have requested more contact with Forest Schools and this is being provided through Archimedes for the next stage in their education.
The future and possible ideas for further funding
The PRU has requested another 3 day a week programme for the whole of the next academic year, starting in Sept 2004.