More About Us...
Why The Nurture Project?
Positive action is needed to aid recovery of the current climate crisis that we face.
In recent years, the adverse effects on physical, mental and social health, exacerbated by the Covid pandemic, have consequently impacted the lives of multi generational communities through social and economic deprivation.
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Strong evidence shows that outdoor learning experiences can have positive impacts on: academic achievement, personal and social development, increased wellbeing and mental health, and care for the environment.
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Our journey begins with the growth of an outdoor community hub in Haydon Bridge Northumberland, comprising of a community garden and forest school which will facilitate an educational programme of diverse outdoor learning experiences, nurturing physical, mental and social wellbeing, and inspire communities to engage in sustainable futures.
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Our aim is to develop both onsite and outreach programmes that inspire, educate and empower people to thrive, grow and to care for their environments.
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Collaborations with specialist practitioners, businesses and educational providers, enabling work experience, specialist provisions, apprenticeships, training courses, volunteering and employment opportunities for people to support their needs.
Benefits & Social Impact
Forest school enhances the holistic development of participants including; emotional, social, intellectual and physical development. Improving language and communication, self regulation skills, resilience, sense of achievement, increased motivation and concentration, problem solving, coping and learning from failure, managing risks, self confidence and self esteem, connections with nature and enjoyment.
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Gardening sessions will enhance the practical skills and knowledge of participants, enhancing physical health through physical activities and increased fresh produce consumption through supply and exposure:
improved food security and access to fresh foods, enhancing fruit & vegetable intake and improving dietary habits through nutritional education.
Green exercise can help reduce anxiety levels and improve mental wellbeing alongside the therapeutic benefits: physical, mental, trauma recovery.
All sessions will benefit social connections and reduce isolation: increased sense of belonging, confidence, purpose and worth.
What is Forest School?
The Forest School ethos follows the six principles set up by the Forest School Association:
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1. Forest School is a long-term process of regular sessions, rather than one-off or infrequent visits; the cycle of planning, observation, adaptation and review links each session.
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2. Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural environment to support the development of a lifelong relationship between the learner and the natural world.
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3. Forest School uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for being, development and learning.
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4. Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
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5. Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
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6. Forest School is run by qualified Forest School practitioners, who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.
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For more information visit the FSA's website here: https://forestschoolassociation.org/