Forest Schools Programme inspires outdoor learning for children across Mid and East Antrim

Children from Braidside Primary School, Ballymena, were joined by Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, as they enjoyed a Forest School session recently.

Primary school pupils from across the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council area are embracing nature as part of this year’s Forest Schools Programme, funded by Council and delivered by the Northern Ireland Forest School Association (NIFSA).

With support from the Council’s Parks and Open Spaces team, the initiative aims to encourage outdoor learning, environmental awareness and exploration, while fostering a sense of community and civic pride among young people.

The Forest School Development Programme, which has been running since 2018, continues to grow in popularity.

This year’s initiative involves a collaboration between Islandmagee Primary School, Braidside Integrated Primary School, and Horizon Sure Start Carrickfergus.

Each group will take part in four outdoor sessions designed to help children learn through play, exploration, and hands-on experiences in a natural environment.

In addition, NIFSA will provide training and assessment for teachers to qualify as Level 3 Forest School Leaders, enabling them to deliver future sessions independently.

Participating schools will also receive a Forest School Starter Kit Bag, including educational resources, while every child will be awarded a NIFSA Nature Ranger Certificate upon completion.

Speaking about the initiative, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said:

“Mid and East Antrim Borough Council are incredibly excited to launch this year’s Forest School programme, which not only promotes outdoor education but also helps foster a deeper connection to the natural world.

“This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to creating meaningful, enriching experiences for our young children.

“We are proud to be offering them the opportunity to learn in new and inspiring ways that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.”

The Council’s continued partnership with NIFSA highlights its dedication to promoting sustainability, environmental responsibility, and outdoor education across the borough.

To find out more about Forest Schools, visit the official NIFSA website at www.ForestSchoolsNI.com.