Constructing Forest Learning: A Pedagogy for Practice

Forest School is a popular approach to young children playing and learning outside, which has become particularly important in the current climate of the Covid-19 pandemic, growing childhood obesity, and concerns over mental well-being. Constructing Forest Learning explores the origins of Forest School in Denmark and compares the two different approaches taken in Denmark and England. The result is an up-to-date analysis of the current situation combined with a contemporary context and cutting-edge approach. Mackinder sets out a ‘model’ pedagogy for practice from a theoretical perspective using a constructivist lens. By comparing the two different approaches and looking specifically at children’s experiences in Forest School and practitioners’ and pedagogues’ practice side by side, it draws out the key elements that constitute Forest School pedagogy. The unique approach and findings in Constructing Forest Learning appeal to a range of audiences, from students and academics to practitioners and educators.