I resigned as co-ordinator of the Leeds Forest School Cluster Group in 2023 as most of my work now is about prehistory rather than pure Forest School. I am still a loyal supporter of Forest School practitioners and continue to be a member of the Leeds group. Two other members have now taken the helm; Amanda Newman a long time member and supporter of the group and Amanda Sowerby who has been an enthusiastic member of the group for a few years. Both are experienced Forest School Leaders with experience of teaching in schools and both are now Freelancers. Amanda Sowerby is now managing the contact list. If you wish to hear about future meetings contact Amanda S. by email on amandasowerby@gmail.com and ask to be added to the mailing list. If you have previously been a member of the Leeds group you will have to do this to remain in contact. To reflect the values of GDPR I have not shared the previous mailing list.
Tina of FSP led this group until December 2023. To comply with GDPR emails about next meetings etc. your email address will be blinded copied to prevent inadvertently sharing your email with others.
The Leeds Forest School Cluster began in 2010 initially organised and hosted by Skelton Environment Education Centre. In recent years myself and another practitioner, Amanda Newman have been co-ordinating termly twilight meeting at members settings. Our aim is to support the development of Forest School practice in Leeds through networking, mutual support and Forest School CPD through skill sharing. We are an inclusive group welcoming members from the public, private and community sectors, qualified and unqualified. It is unfunded and is free to join. To find out about the next meeting and join the group contact Tina - tinaevroberts@outlook.com
During Covid-19 pandemic face to face meetings have been cancelled until further notice. Meanwhile the possibility of virtual meetings is being explored.
Meetings have been held at:
Skelton Grange Environmental Education Centre
Ninelands Primary School
Temple Learning Academy
Herd Farm Residential and Activity Centre
Great Preston Primary School
Sharp Lane Primary School
This Green Moon
New Bewerley Primary School
Themes for meetings have included:
Outdoor learning in Maths and Science
How to find training and set up a Forest School
Practising tool skills
Forest School crafts
Fire lighting practise and safe use of Kelly Kettles
Recipe sharing and cooking outside
Bonding and networking with other Forest Schoolers in the Woods
Sharing assessment proformas, floor books and portfolios
Reviewing Forest School resources including books, websites, further CPD
Forest School equipment recommendations and evaluations and local sources of woodland materials
Feedback from FSA conferences and IOL Outdoor Learning Festivals and liaising with other regional Forest School groups