Abstract

The aim of this study was to find out parents’ and children’s perception of outdoor learning programmes with specific reference to Archimedes Forest Schools, known as Forest Schools. A review of existing research showed that there had been no rigorous evaluation of perception of forest schools. The study was conducted in the UK and mixed method design was used taking into account ethical reconsiderations. The findings of this research highlighted the importance of forest schools for children and showed enough evidence as to why parents must allow their children to attend forest schools. Listening to parents’ and children’s voices can inform understanding of their perceptions and opinions about Forest Schools and contribute to wider discourses on how forest schools sessions and programmes can be improved to meet specific individual and group needs.  The research team did not find any evidence to prove that high risk is involved when sending children to forest schools sessions and programmes but found enough evidences that forest schools increase children academic, physical and social performance when attended over a long period of time. Additionally, it helps to improve the connection between children and nature and contributes to their positive attitude towards the environment.

Key words: Archimedes Forest Schools, parents’ and children’s perception.