What is Risky Play?

Risky play is defined as thrilling and challenging forms of play that involve a risk of physical injury Sandseter (2007).

Sandseter identified six categories of risky play which are part of forest school:

  1. Great heights: climbing trees or steep slopes

  2. High speed: running down steep slopes on uneven terrain

  3. Dangerous tools: Using saws and knives to make log dogs, whittle sticks

  4. Dangerous elements: Being near fire, ice, water

  5. Rough and tumble play: den wars, stick fights

  6. Disappearing/getting lost: Eagle’s nest, hide and seek, large play zones.

Barnardos (2014) state that risky play is key to children’s physical and mental development as well as understanding safety for them.

Risky play is always supported and supervised by Forest School adults.

In addition, as Forest School leader I complete risk benefit assessments (RBAs) of all activities at forest school so that I am confident that there are adequate controls in place to mitigate risks.

Irish Forest School Association Six Principles

At Spraoi Forest School we are guided by the Irish Forest School Association six principles:

1. Regular Setting

Forest school is a long-term process of regular sessions, rather than a one-off or infrequent visits; the cycle of planning, observation, adaptation and review links each session.

2. Woodland setting

Forest school takes place in a woodland or natural environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.

3. Building Community

Forest school uses a range of learner-centered processes to create a community for being, development, and learning.

4. Holistic Development

Forest school aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.

5. Risk Taking

Forest school offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.

6. Qualified Practitioners

Forest school is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.

Child to Adult Supervision Ratios at Forest School

Children under four years old:

Parents/guardians must attend Forest School with their child unless the Forest School activities are being carried out with a registered childcare facility or school in which case the childcare facility or school’s own child safety ratios will be adhered to.

Children aged four to eight years old:

Ratio of one adult to six children.

Children nine to 12 years old:

Ratio of one adult to eight children.

Children aged 12+:

Ratio of one adult to ten children.

Two adults will always be available to supervise Forest School activities. Children are supervised at all times while at Spraoi Forest School.

When working with schools during school time, the adult to child ratio will be agreed with the school in advance. The ratio will consider age and any additional needs of the children attending.

Benefits of Spraoi Forest School

All the benefits are too numerous to mention but some of the important ones are:

1. Children have fun playing outdoors in the fresh air and have the opportunity to explore nature

2. Trees and nature inspire imaginative play and creativity

3. Opportunity to learn new skills and lanuage while using tools and equipment

4. The space and opportunity to assess and take supported risks

5. Builds independence, confidence and resilience to face challenges, make decisions and problem solve

6. Strong nature connection to be future stewards of nature

When and where does Forest School take place?

Spraoi Forest School primarily works during school time directly with schools in order to deliver on their outdoor learning initiatives.

Muireann Carroll Burke has worked with

  • St. Pius Forest School in Bushy Park, Templeogue

  • Rathmines Forest School in the former walled garden of Rathmines Castle on the Upper Rathmines Road

  • Cana Educate Together, Inchicore school grounds

  • St Joseph’s National School in Cualanore Park, Dun Laoghaire

  • Free Range Outdoor Education in Ardgillan Park

  • Scoil Mológa in Mount Argus Park, Harold’s Cross

Permission for each Forest School session is sought from the local council or landowners prior to commencing Forest School activities.

Spraoi Forest School sessions usually run weekly for 3 hours during school time and are suitable for all age groups.

Things you need to take part in Forest School

  • Parent/guardian complete the consent form

  • A positive attitude towards playing outside

  • Wet weather jacket, trousers and shoes

  • A packed lunch/snack and water

  • Sun cream and sun hat if we do have a nice day :-)