Supporting the development of Forest School across Ireland
Welcome to the Irish Forest School Association Who We AreFind a forest schoolWhat is Forest School?
Forest School is an inspirational process, that offers ALL learners regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands-on learning experiences in a woodland or natural environment with trees.
Our Mission
The Irish Forest School Association was founded in 2016 to support the development of Forest School learning in Ireland. Our mission is to support the development of quality Forest Schools in a diverse range of settings in Ireland.
Membership
Membership of the IFSA is open to everyone interested in developing quality Forest School in Ireland. Membership is renewed annually in May as a part of the annual conference subscription.
Next Steps
How to Get Involved
Become a Member
Principles of Forest School
Train as a Forest School Leader
Come to our Events
Find a
Forest School
near you
Child Protection
Benefits of Forest School
Changes in self-esteem and confidence
Improve physical skills
Increase motivation for learning and improve concentration
Co-operation as part of a team teaches children to be aware of others
Improve language and communication skills
Improve relationship with and understanding of the outdoors
Enhance numeracy and literacy skills
join us
UPCOMING EVENTS
IFSA REGIONAL GATHERINGS
SAVE THE DATE!
Coming to an IFSA region near you at the end of October/early November.
Members can find out more from their regional coordinator – make sure to log in to the Membership section and join your local WhatsApp regional group.
These events will also be open to non-members, so watch this space – booking will open early in October.
Irish Level 6 Certificate in Forest School Leadership validated by QQI
Two courses are starting in October 2023.
Visit the link below to get all the information you need, read more about Forest School Leadership and to register your interest in the next training courses.
Resources
Téarmaíocht d'IFSA (Useful Irish words)
An Taisce Green Schools
CRANN Trees for Ireland
Coillte Nature
Easy Treesie
Native Woodland Trust
Leave No Trace
LEAF Ireland
Field Studies Ireland
Heritage in Schools
Forest School Association (England)
Children and Natural Alliance of Canada
Outdoor & Woodland Learning in Scotland (OWL)
Nature Days
Lasmuigh - the professional practice journal for the Outdoor Sector on the Island of Ireland
MuddyFaces (Outdoor Practitioner Magazine)
Trees on the Land