KERKUS

FOREST

SCHOOL

At KERKUS Forest School Dublin,

we provide kids with the guidance, space and structure to learn, play and explore in nature and the great outdoors.

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New Friday After School Club

Ages 7-11 

Kerkus Forest School

is an independent Forest School based in Dublin. We believe kids can benefit significantly from learning in the natural environment, and provide a safe space for child-led play. Forest School is a fantastic foundation for learning that has a very positive influence on later academic achievements. Our weekly sessions and camps go ahead in all weathers, bar high winds and electrical storms, and require our little learners to be dressed appropriately for the conditions. 

Booking:

There are plenty of opportunities to join us in the forest.

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Contact us to find out more.

Our term dates. 

Club times 3.30 - 5pm

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Click below to book our weekly After-school Clubs and Camps

• Monday After-school Club (Ages 4-7) 

• Tuesday After-school Club (Ages 4-7)

• Friday After-school Club (Ages 7-11)

Full

Full

What is Forest School?

Forest School is an inspirational process that allows kids regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands-on learning experiences in a natural environment.

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The system has become increasingly mainstream in Ireland and the UK in recent years, but it is nothing new, having informally existed here since the 1800s. The process grew in Scandinavia due to a lack of suitable indoor learning environments, and it became apparent that those that were exposed to Forest School showed strong social skills, ability for teamwork, high self-esteem and confidence in their own capabilities when they entered the formal education system.

It has become more popular in recent years as people search for a child-focused alternative to the teacher-focused classroom environment and has become more formalised through the establishment of Forest School Associations in Ireland and the UK. Kerkus Forest School is accredited by both organisations.

Here’s what others are saying:
Kerkus:

“I could use my imagination and make up stuff.” 5 year old participant.

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“We played with mud. I painted my face and arms. It was so much fun.” 5 year old participant.

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“My son looked forward to Forest every week, he enjoyed the new experiences such as using a peeler for the first time, building forts, and of course the roasting of marshmallows on the last day. He liked the free imaginative play and using/creating things out of nature.” Parent

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"I didn't know much about Forest School - FS - until our son started with Kerkus Forest School. He loves it - he constantly talks about FS and their activities, and draws pictures about it too! His confidence and play has been transformed. I can't recommend this activity enough... Great that this environment for learning is available in Dublin." Parent

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“For individual kids it brought many out of their shells and gave them space to be themselves. I also noticed many becoming more reflective and relaxed.” Primary School Teacher

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Forest School:

“What You Learn At Forest School”, The Irish Times
“Why Children Need To Go Into The Woods Today”, The Irish Times “Children Should Learn In The Great Outdoors”, The Guardian

Our Location: 

Deer Park, Mount Merrion. Co. Dublin

FAQ:

We get asked all kinds of questions, mainly to do with what forest school involves, what to wear, and whether it is safe for kids to use tools. We’ve collected the most frequent questions here - if you have any other queries, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our policies and procedures can be viewed upon request.

CONTACT US:

Want to book a class or find out more about Forest School? Please don't hesitate to complete the form below or call Kerkus on 087 635 0634.