Evaluating the impact of F orest S chools: a collaboration between a university and a primary school

The F orest S chool movement, an important part of education in S candinavia, has gained momentum in the UK in recent years. Within the context of declining access to, and engagement with, the natural environment F orest S chools can provide invaluable life experiences for our children. In 2012 the U niversity of N orthampton investigated opportunities to develop part of its campus as a forest site for use by schools and to enhance its students' learning. A researcher from the university evaluated the impact of visits made by children from the pilot primary school through a series of pupil, staff and parent interviews. Analysis of the interview data showed that evidence of impact was anecdotal and it was clear that a systematic approach was needed. The university and school have collaborated in developing a toolkit for evaluating this impact, which will act as a starting point to support other schools visiting the site.