Values & Ethos

Nurturing Sustainable Learning and Personal Development

At Willowbank Education, our primary objective is to cultivate a profound connection with nature by facilitating regular personal experiences. This approach aims to instil enduring, environmentally sustainable attitudes and practices among our staff, learners, and the broader community.

We harness the power of natural resources to inspire creativity and intrinsic motivation, fostering an environment where pupils can flourish intellectually and emotionally. Our mission is to nurture resilient, confident, independent, and creative learners, underpinned by a commitment to holistic development.

Our experienced leaders strategically link Forest School experiences to the realms of home, work, and school education, enhancing the practical relevance of the learning process. Through our Forest School programmes, we comprehensively develop the physical, social, cognitive, linguistic, emotional, moral, and spiritual aspects of our pupils, ensuring a well-rounded education.

At Willowbank Education, we provide learners with opportunities to take supported risks tailored to both the environment and their capabilities. The use of tools and fires is judiciously determined, contingent upon a meticulous baseline risk assessment conducted by our adept leaders. Every Forest School experience is meticulously guided by a bespoke Risk Assessment, initially managed by the leader and then collaboratively tailored to the specific needs of the learner.

Our institution is led by a highly qualified Forest School leader committed to the continuous enhancement of professional practices and standards. With a minimum accredited Level 3 Forest School qualification, our leader maintains a high ratio of dedicated adults to learners within our provision, ensuring personalised attention and guidance.

Willowbank Education operates within a structured framework defined by comprehensive working documents, encompassing pertinent policies and procedures. These are meticulously outlined in our Forest School handbook, delineating the roles and responsibilities of our staff and learners. Our Forest School leader adopts a reflective practitioner stance, acknowledging continuous learning as a fundamental aspect of our ethos.

Employing a learner-centred pedagogical approach, Willowbank Education tailors its methods to respond to the unique needs and interests of each individual. Through meticulous planning, thoughtful dialogue, and relationship building, our leaders model this pedagogy, emphasising the significance of play and choice in the learning process. Recognizing the pivotal role of play in learning and development, Willowbank Education stimulates diverse learning preferences and dispositions, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.

Reflective practice is embedded within each session, allowing learners and leaders to comprehend their achievements, enhance emotional intelligence, and strategically plan for the future. At Willowbank Education, we are dedicated to fostering a learning environment that nurtures both the intellect and the spirit, empowering individuals to thrive in a sustainable, interconnected world.