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