Ready, Respectful and Responsible
Our urban woodlands and allotments offer our young people a safe and engaging space to connect with nature, discover what motivates them, and explore the full range of their emotions in a supportive and non-judgmental environment
Our Mission
As a Non-Profit Organisation, Forest Schooling UK strives to use all its resources to create a secure and welcoming learning space for young people with SEMH needs. Our goal is to empower them by nurturing emotional well-being, developing resilience, and encouraging positive relationships. We are confident in the potential of every young person and are dedicated to assisting them in overcoming barriers that hinder their self-belief.
Holistic Education
Our approach is rooted in the principles of holistic education. We prioritise the social, emotional, and mental well-being of our students, alongside academic development. Through our core values of being Ready, Respectful and Responsible, we create a nurturing community where every young person feels valued and supported.
Our Own Story
Where it all began...
Our Forest School began with a simple idea and a strong sense of purpose. One Wednesday afternoon, we opened up a two-hour session in nature, not just as an outdoor activity—but as a safe, supportive space for children who needed it most.
Very quickly, we identified a pressing need within the local community: a growing number of young people with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs who were struggling in their school settings, often facing exclusion due to behavioural challenges.
It became clear that they weren't just acting out - they were asking for connection, understanding, and an environment that allowed them to breathe, grow, and thrive.
We grew quickly and became a Non-Profit organisation and Forest Schooling UK was created in direct response to that need. Through nature-based play, exploration, and trust-building activities, we offer an alternative approach - one that meets children where they are and gives them the tools and space to heal, regulate, and rediscover their confidence.
What started as a small Wednesday initiative has grown into something far more meaningful: a community where every young person feels seen, supported, and valued.
Our Team.
At the heart of our work with young people with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs is our dedicated and diverse team; individuals who bring compassion, expertise, and lived experience. Many come from similar backgrounds to the young people we support, and often, young people may recognise themselves in the staff. This representation builds trust, breaks down barriers, and offers powerful role models, showing that growth and positive change are truly possible.
