Northern Ireland Forest School Association

Public benefits

Public Benefit Statement What is the benefit that flows as a result of the purpose being carried out? There has been a lot of research undertaken regarding the benefits of Forest Schools - • Beneficial to a child’s all round development, particularly in the areas of personal, social and emotional, language and communication. • Provides

opportunities for the children to take risks, problem solve and use thinking skills. Research undertaken by Stranmillis University at a NIFSA trained Forest Schools showed that children undertook greater physical activity when in a Forest School than when in a school-based physical education class. Long-term studies by the Woodland Trust indicate that if a child has positive and fun experiences in the natural environment they have a much greater affection and understanding of nature and therefore higher regard for it. Socially, short-term studies of local parks being developed as Forest School sites have shown a reduction in anti-social behaviour as local communities have taken on an "ownership" of the site. There will be an overall improvement in the quality of life in the local community - * Volunteering is encouraged within the community plays a significant part in bringing about positive change. * Stronger links will be developed between the school and the local community. How can the organisation demonstrate this benefit? Independent NIFSA survey showed 75% of NIFSA trained Forest School Leaders are continuing with the programme after their training. Research undertaken by Stranmillis University at a NIFSA trained Forest Schools showed that children really enjoyed the experience and thought that it contributed positively to their curriculum studies. Who are the intended beneficiaries? The intended beneficiaries are a) The teachers/youth leaders being trained as Forest School Leaders b) The pupils/young people participating in the project c) The local community as the school/group take on an ownership of the Forest School site Is there any harm or potential for harm as a result of the purpose being carried out? No Does anyone gain a private benefit as a result of the purpose being carried out? No

What your organisation does

The Company develops and delivers sustainable environmental education programmes to schools and youth organisations across Northern Ireland. We also advise on conservation issues and help organisations create or enhance wildlife areas, for example, local authority parks or school grounds.