Published on 29.09.25 in Forest School & Research

Exploring the power of Forest Schools for children's wellbeing

New podcast explores the research behind nature-based learning.

Exploring the power of Forest Schools for children's wellbeing 🌳

We're delighted to share a new episode from The Research Room podcast, which features a conversation with researchers Dr Hannah Armitt and Dr Rachel Bottomley-Wise about their vital project: the FINCH study.

With NHS data showing that one in five children now has a probable mental health condition, the search for support is more urgent than ever. The FINCH (Forest school INterventions for Children's Health) study is exploring how Forest Schools can provide this crucial support within primary schools, helping children build resilience and confidence.

Researchers Dr Hannah Armitt and Dr Rachel Bottomley-Wise explain how they are working to identify the ‘key ingredients’ that make Forest Schools effective, with the goal of creating a model that can be rolled out in any school, from rural fields to inner-city playgrounds.

Teachers involved in the study have noted that children with additional needs particularly thrive in this setting. As one researcher observed, pupils are so engaged they "don't want to stop their forest school even to go to the toilet!"

Ready to be inspired? Head over to The Research Room website to listen to the full 35 minute episode!

If you would like to collaborate, or find out more about FINCH, contact the study team at finch-trial@york.ac.uk

For more Forest School research visit the Outdoor Hub

FS research & reports

Forest School is brilliant outdoor play & learning for Early Years & Primary age children - it develops skills, confidence, well being & nature connection. And here's (some of) the proof!

We've gathered together work by academics & professionals looking into the quantitative and qualitative benefits of Forest School.

The evidence continues to grow & new research continues to be undertaken. This is by no means an exhaustive list. Do contact us if you know of more to add: share@muddyfaces.co.uk

These reports & research are, as much as possible, arranged in chronological order, most recent at the top.

Read More about FS research & reports

Forest School videos & podcasts

A collection of Forest School films & podcasts to inspire you. From Early Years to Primary school and beyond, these are exciting examples of outdoor play and learning in action.

If you know of any other great Forest School-related videos please let us know via share@muddyfaces.co.uk

Arranged, as much as possible, in chronological order

Forest School articles & blogs

What do people think about Forest School? Articles & news from the UK & internationally, featuring evidence & expert opinion on Forest School and its benefits in Early Years, Primary and beyond.

Scroll down for our list of recommended blogs regularly posting reflective & inspiring content about their work.

More and more is written every day about Forest School as its reputation and community grows. This is by no means an exhaustive list. Do let us know if you spot something that would make a useful contribution or offers an interesting perspective.

Arranged, as much as possible, in chronological order, most recent at the top. If you have news, articles or blogs to add let us know via share@muddyfaces.co.uk. Thank you.

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Exploring the power of Forest Schools for children's wellbeing