Forest Research (2021) conducted a research project which suggested that Forest Schools make a difference to children in the following ways:

• Confidence: children had the freedom, time and space to learn and demonstrate independence

• Social skills: children gained increased awareness of the consequences of their actions on peers through team activities such as sharing tools and participating in play

• Communication: language development was prompted by the children’s sensory experiences

• Motivation: the woodland tended to fascinate the children and they developed a keenness to participate and the ability to concentrate over longer periods of time

• Physical skills: these improvements were characterised by the development of physical stamina and gross and fine motor skills

• Knowledge and understanding: the children developed an interest in the natural surroundings and respect for the environment