Forest Schools Blog.

Forest Schools Malaysia - Day One

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 15:38:00 +0000

Training - Day One...

Arriving early on the Monday to set up, very quickly people started to arrive and there was a sense of excitement about the start of something special, created in this place by all those involved as this, just like Australia and New Zealand before, was something new for us.

With a new group of individuals as always, but particularly important given the uniqueness of this endeavour, time was invested in building a sense of familiarity with one another and of the journey ahead. It is really only though finding commonality, be it cultural, world-views, personal circumstances, hobbies, personality and many more aspects besides, that we have a reference through which to be able to better understand the life of another.

We found out about the families, careers, pastimes, perspectives as well as hopes and dreams of one another and found something to share between each person and another within our group. When familiarity is allowed to grown into comfort, it may then blossom into a sense of community and trust, an important foundation to explore some of the deeper experiences and meanings of Forest Schools.

The sense of play seems universal to me and our time in the Nursery grounds reaffirmed this so. The creations and interweaving elements from the story we created together told of that vital element in all good play and learning, humour. Boundless at breaking down boundaries, those first tentative opportunities to play alongside other adults is bond making and creates a melody within the group to be played along their journey. No longer are we teachers and countryside managers on a course, we are beginning to be friends and trustees of our own play, each indebted to the other for the opportunity to be playful. Our stories interwove and all to soon we were sitting down for our first meal together, an altogether familiar affair, later admitted to me as a gentle introduction to the exciting world of Malaysian cuisine.

The afternoon brought Happy Bags, Tool Talks and delving into the portfolio, all being explored and discussed within the context of the the overall ethos and framework that underpins this approach. The heat, whilst thick and humid in the morning, made itself hard to ignore as the sun curved down and away from its noon high. Dappled shade from the trees above was welcome shelter from the unrelenting heat, the occasional breeze more rewarding than I had ever appreciated quite like before.

Lastly, having experienced and sampled how the Archimedes Forest Schools approach creates the opportunities that it does, we explored this foundation. Each person on the course relaying the words that summed up their experience and feelings that day. For some it was reflective of their childhood, mirrored in our adventures that day, for others about their feelings of the day itself. With all there was a sense of bringing something back, starting something new and discovering as we go.

Forest Schools Malaysia

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 11:26:00 +0000

What an amazing first couple of days being here in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

After landing around 3pm I dropped my luggage off at the hotel and met up with Jane, the manager of the Kindergarten where I am running the course this week, who is responsible for us having the opportunity to come here.

The grounds of the kindergarten are being developed to provide additional outdoor areas where the children can explore and play, but there is also access to a range of parklands and rainforest/arboretum for their use, with the local countryside rangers being supportive and accommodating by building a fire circle for us to use this week and for the kindergarten's continued use.

Visiting the different sites, I now have a clear idea in my mind how to use the variety of spaces to explore the logistics, environment and atmosphere each can create for a group.

The course will use the sites in a progression that reflects how it can work best with children, starting near to the kindergarten and venturing further and further out as they grow in confidence.

Some of the beautiful things I have experienced already include walking back down from the hilly forest, listening to the call the prayer, watching the bats fly at dusk while the monkeys bed down for the night and the plethora of new tree species I am looking forward to working with.

This morning I went out and had breakfast with Amar of chicken porridge with sweet tea and collected the remaining resources for the course. I also got to see more of the city and the rapid development that is being invested in as part of the 2020 development plan. it s also interest to note the facilities for controlling the storm waters that are evident in the infrastructure of the city, physical evidence of the radically different climate I am in if it were needed.

The rest of day is going to be spent doing some additional research on the specific flora found at the site and then tomorrow is the start of the course which I am very excited about.

Paul Moseley

Training Manager - Archimedes

New Forest School Kindergarten in Sheffield

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 11:22:00 +0000

The sun is shining, the grass is green and the birds are singing across the fields of Fulwood Scout hut. Children full of energy, raring to get outside arrive in their outdoor clothing and imaginations engaged.

Curiosity kicks in as soon as you arrive; the different imagination stations we have set up allow children to discover new things right from the start. The natural materials allow for children to make judgements based on their own curiosities as well as start developing an understanding of what the outdoor has to offer.

Once all of our outdoor explorers have arrived we waste no time heading into the glorious outdoors geared up to be amazed. It’s clear to see the benefits of the outdoors in just a few steps. On our journey to the woods children and even parents are stunned by what the field can offer, from the size of mole mounds to grass shooters.

We reach the wildness of the tall trees and leaves the size of umbrellas. Eyes grow bigger and imaginations run as we explore the woodlands on a scavenge hunt, children search high and low, problem solving, team working as well as discovering the natural beauty. The mud comes out to play, fascination grows when children realise getting muddy is allowed and is so much fun. Throwing mud at trees is sometimes enough for some, but for others mud faces allows for creativity and inventiveness. Snail shells as eyes, leaves as hair and stones as a big smile is an amazing way to use mud and decorate the trees.

Fresh fruit as inspiration from the book the hungry caterpillar and story time on our soft fleece rugs to end the session. Reflecting and developing ideas for next week is part of the whole process we adopt, children lead play.

Big smiles, new skills and more ideas are taken away from the Forest Schools Kindergarten.

See you there!

Elly Blackwell
Manager - Forest School Kindergartens (TM)
(c) Archimedes Training Limited 2013

For more information contact Elly on 0114 22 11 811

Why Forest Schools Should Be In Forests

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Thu, 16 May 2013 08:07:00 +0000

Archimedes acknowledges that Forest Schools can be run anywhere..

However the fundamental principle remains that trees were the essential element in its history, are the theoretical and scientifically recognised constructs for its existence in the presence of trees and will be its future as more scientific research underpins that trees are what contribute to the wellness of body mind and spirit. We advocate Forest schools with trees.......and this is one of the reasons why.....

TREE HUGGING NOW SCIENTIFICALLY VALIDATED
WRITTEN BY THE EDITORIAL STAFF ON 28 DECEMBER 2012. POSTED IN NATURAL HEALING
Die hard conservatives love to disparage liberals as tree huggers, but it has been recently scientifically validated that hugging trees is actually good for you. Research has shown that you don't even have to touch a tree to get better, you just need to be within its vicinity has a beneficial effect.

In a recently published book, Blinded by Science, the author Matthew Silverstone, proves scientifically that trees do in fact improve many health issues such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), concentration levels, reaction times, depression and other forms of mental illness. He even points to research indicating a tree's ability to alleviate headaches in humans seeking relief by communing with trees.

The author points to a number of studies that have shown that children show significant psychological and physiological improvement in terms of their health and well being when they interact with plants and trees. Specifically, the research indicates that children function better cognitively and emotionally in green environments and have more creative play in green areas. Also, he quotes a major public health report that investigated the association between green spaces and mental health concluded that "access to nature can significantly contribute to our mental capital and wellbeing".

So what is it about nature that can have these significant effects? Up until now it has been thought to be the open green spaces that cause this effect. However, Matthew Silverstone, shows that it is nothing to do with this by proving scientifically that it is the vibrational properties of trees and plants that give us the health benefits and not the open green spaces.

The answer to how plants and trees affect us physiologically turns out to be very simple. It is all to do with the fact that everything vibrates in a subtle manner, and different vibrations affect biological behaviours. One research experiment showed that if you drink a glass of water that has been treated with a "10Hz vibration" your blood coagulation rates will change immediately on ingesting the treated water. It is the same with trees, when touching a tree its different vibrational pattern will affect various biological behaviours within your body.

This vibrational idea is backed up throughout the book by a number of scientific studies to provide convincing proof that tree hugging after all is not such a crazy idea. One report even concluded the following: "safe, green spaces may be as effective as prescription drugs in treating some forms of mental illnesses".

There is one other school of thought are in alignment with this remarkable theory: Taoism. For example, the Taoist master Mantak Chia teaches students to meditate with trees, as a way of release "negative energies." In his Cosmic Tree Healing Qigong method, Master Chia teaches how to align one's body with the "aura" (or energetic field) of a tree. He explains that trees are natural processors that can help you transform your body's sick or negative energy into positive, vital life force energy. As you connect your energy with the tree you facilitate your own physical and emotional healing. The Taoist theory is that because trees stand very still, they are better at absorbing the Earth's Energy and the Universal Force from the Heavens. Trees and all plants have the ability to absorb the light frequencies and transform them into physical food; and they do the same with energetic food. The Taoist view of trees is to see them constantly in meditation, with subtle energy as their natural language.

One other fascinating laboratory that studies plant vibrational energies is Damanhur, an intentional community in Italy. In this peaceful and spiritual ecovillage there is a laboratory in the woods that offers a beautiful choir of singing trees. Yeah, you read that right... singing trees. Since 1976, researchers at Damanhur have invented and developed equipment that can capture electromagnetic changes on the surface of leaves and roots, transforming them into actual sounds. The best part is, these trees seem to control their electrical responses via a feedback mechanism, and demonstrate a kind of awareness and preference for types of music. The singing plants and trees of Damanhur have sparked off such a worldwide fascination that the people began organizing “Plant Concerts”, where musicians perform to the music created by the trees.

What you can do: Get off the web and go for a walk in nature! And go meditate with a tree! Run your Forest Schools in woodland...

Sarah Blackwell

CEO

Archimedes Training Ltd

Forest Schools

Additional info:

Read: Blinded by Science by Matthew Silverstone

Watch: Cosmic Tree Healing Qigong by Master Mantak Chia

So What Can Social Forestry Really Do For You?

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Tue, 14 May 2013 10:00:00 +0000

What is Social Forestry and what can it do for you?

The answer to that question is an interesting one. But first we should ask, can we use the woods/forest to promote health and well-being?

An American study, referred to in a piece by the BBC found that by just being able to see trees from the hospital window helped patients recover quicker.

Grounds of the old King Edward VII Hospital Sheffield

A Japanese study carried out in 2010 high-lighted not only the physical benefits of being around trees but also the mental benefits, both restorative and therapeutic effects on the mind.

Woods/Trees have found to enhance moods, improve self esteem and lower blood pressure.

From these articles and studies we can see the benefit from being in the woods, so the original question was what is Social Forestry and what can it do for you?

It is a long term programme, working with Special Needs, Mental Health, or PPO’s (Persistent Prolific Offenders), to provide inspiration to individuals who may have lost their sense of hope, or feel no sense of personal achievement and therefore lost the ability to enter back into the sociable world that presents a sense of community and personal development.

The Course in Social Forestry is run over five days and it is designed for anyone interested in working with a range of individuals or groups in the woodland environment for social, economic or environmental purposes. On the course you will learn about wood, woods, forests and how to look after them successfully. You will also learn how to identify and utilize natural products to make and create greenwood crafts using tools. Alongside that there is the human wellbeing unit, where you will learn the basic attributes of well being and how you as a practitioner can facilitate this and help to develop a positive mental attitude in all those you work with.

Simon Robinson

Trainer (Level 4)

Archimedes Training Ltd

PRIZES PRIZES PRIZES...WIN A FULL ARCHIMEDES LEVEL 3 PRACTITIONER COURSE VALUED AT £999

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Tue, 07 May 2013 16:07:00 +0000

Win a full Archimedes Level 3 Practitioner Training course at one of our amazing venues

Yes...there's a catch...we have just started a new Facebook PAGE for Forest Schools and we want you and everyone you know to 'LIKE' it...one of you lucky likers will be drawn to win this amazing prize.

We have decided that we are going to engage with this social media thing and have created a Facebook PAGE so that we can promote Forest Schools to the whole world.

The Government is committed, albeit a little shyly when it comes to doling out some of our tax dosh, to the notion that some kids flourish in outdoor learning environments and all kids benefit massively from their brush with nature.

But we need your help to get the message out there...and we don't expect you to do it for nothing.

You can win one of our amazing and world leading Level 3 Forest Schools Practitioner training courses, valued at £999, by simply clicking LIKE on our Facebook page HERE and telling all of your chums to like it too...they can give you the prize if they don't want it...

Once we have 1,000 'likes' on the Forest Schools Facebook page we will ask an independent third party to draw the winner from the list. The winner will be notified and invited to pick a date and place from a list on exciting venues.

CALL TO ARMS (and hands, feet, legs and faces) The midges are biting...

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Tue, 07 May 2013 14:48:00 +0000

Smidge for 2011 remains the same reliable rain and sweat-proof formulation, providing

safe, long-lasting protection for adults and children over 30 months. In a slight improvement

to the bottle design, the plastic pump spray has been replaced with a crimped metal one to

reduce the risk of leakage. So now the bottle is as hardy as the outdoor lovers who use it.

What’s the secret?

Smidge contains a dastardly formulation designed to throw midges off your scent. To remind

yourselves of the full facts about Smidge, read about the testing carried out and look at

the feedback from 2010, visit The Midge Forecast to download a presentation.

The Midge Forecast for this year

Following the Artic weather in January last year we saw a bumper midge season. This year’s

icy start to the year means we may see the same this summer. The first midges will begin

to raise their annoying heads in May. Order NOW!! and have Smidge on your

shelves and ready for action by the weekend.

You can order SMIDGE from our online shop for just £6.99 Order Here we're cheaper than Muddy Faces, Angling Active and the same price as Amazon (we do, however, pay our UK taxes too)...

Archimedes Level 3 Practitioner in The Scottish Borders

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Tue, 07 May 2013 14:21:00 +0000

Forest School Level 3 training in the Scottish Borders...

Why not treat yourself to not one but TWO wonderful 5 day breaks in the Scottish borders at our new and amazing Forest Schools site at Newcastleton for just £1,150 (for both weeks) and whilst you're there you can do your Archimedes Forest Schools level 3 practitioner training. The first week starts on the 18th November 2013 and an assessment week will take place the following summer there.

The course is set in some of the worlds best scenery and the Archimedes trainers are excited about this venue as it has everything needed to put you through your paces and develop you as a fully qualified practitioner. Book Online Here

We are also hosting a taster day there on the 20th September for just £50 per head and you can book online here Book Online

Forest Schools in Britains first 'Public Park' - Birkenhead Park

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 13:39:00 +0000

Frederick Law Olmstead said after his 1850 visit to Birkenhead Park: "Five minutes of admiration, and a few more spent studying the manner in which art had been employed to obtain from nature so much beauty, and I was ready to admit that in democratic America there was nothing to be thought of as comparable with this People's Garden."

The fruits of his inspiration were taken to New York where Central Park opened seven years later - one of the city's major landmarks and the backdrop to countless movies.

Archimedes is now running a full level 3 practitioners course at Britain's first public park on 10th - 14th June...come and join this unique adventure in an incredible woodland setting. There are just a few remaining places in this historic setting and you can book online here Book Online

Birkenhead Park was opened on Easter Monday 5 April 1847 by Lord Morpeth and is regarded by some historians as the world's first public park, and was also one of the UK's first municipal green spaces.

Source: BBC News 12th April 2013.

Discounted education conference tickets through archimedes!

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 14:43:00 +0000

You may know that we are Partners with Whole Education, a non profit organisation committed to ensuring that all young people have access to a broad, rounded education that fully prepares them for the 21st century.

We'd like to invite you to their upcoming Regional Conference, 'Journeys to Outstanding' in London on Wednesday 6th March.

This practice-focused conference will enable school leaders and other interested individuals / organisations to hear from education leaders and Whole Education Pathfinder schools including:

• Professor Tim Brighouse, who will share his insights on the crucial role of school leaders in setting the vision and learning ethos in schools;

• Baroness Estelle Morris, who will share her reflections on ways forward for the English education system and the important role leaders have to play in making the most of the workforce we have;

• Carl Jarvis, Headteacher at Hartsholme Academy, will share about how they completed the journey from Special Measures to Outstanding in just under two years through a deep commitment to immersive and challenge-based learning, and working with the same staff from start to finish!

• Chris Holmwood, Principal of the Leadership and Training Centre at Outstanding school, Shenley Brook End will share about how the school's passion to 'Lift the Lid' in order to transform learning has led it in an exciting and imaginative direction.

Delegates will also have the opportunity to attend a range of workshops led by schools doing pioneering work with Whole Education Partners (including ourselves!) around key themes, including Bishop Justus School on going beyond CPD; Ormiston Venture Academy on technology and digital literacy; Thomas Tallis School on how residential experiences can achieve significant breakthroughs; Wildern School who will showcase their New Techs work; Mount Carmel School for Girls on their 'SUPER' approach to learning and many more.

Cost: Full price is £245. However, if you mention that you heard through us, Whole Education will be able to offer you a ticket for £195, or two tickets for £295.

For more information please click here. To book, please contact Jo Dale on 0207 250 8053 / jo@wholeeducation.org.

Forest Schools - Research Link

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 13:02:00 +0000

Hi All

Here is a link to some useful research on Outdoor Learning. We hope you find it useful!

http://www.nfer.ac.uk/nfer/publications/OCR01/OCR01.pdf

SNOW: Update on Courses

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 17:13:00 +0000

Hello everyone

First of all thank you all for being so patient and understanding about the snow situation! I have managed to speak to pretty much everyone but for reference and for those that I haven't managed to speak to, here is what we propose to do:

Level 3 Course, Whiteley Woods, Sheffield 21st-25th Jan

Course will be going ahead as usual from tomorrow and we will try to make up for the lost day today in the four days. An extra support day will be added into the diary for those that would like to attend it. We will also be offering half price accommodation at the venue for those that would like to stay overnight and avoid driving in the conditions (now only £8.50 per night). Accommodation will be available in Whiteley woods from tonight - just ring the bell at reception to call the warden. For those that do not want to attend the training tomorrow we are more than happy to rebook you onto a different training week all together (next date is March 4th-8th 2013), just contact the office.

Level 2 Course, Cannock Chase, Staffs 21st-25th Jan

This course has been completely cancelled. We have rescheduled a new course to take place from the 18th-22nd March 2013 in Cannock. All delegates are welcome to rebook onto another training course. There is a course in Surrey from the 10th-15th June 2013 where we will be offering free accommodation on site for those that will have to travel. Otherwise we are happy to offer a full refund.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to get in touch with the office on 0114 22 11 811. Please note we are open from 9am-5pm. For queries outside these hours please contact Sarah on 07957496161.

Many thanks everyone!

Kind regards

Jen

VACANCY: Business Development and Marketing Executive

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 17:05:00 +0000

Job Vacancy

Business Development and Marketing Executive

As part of an on-going business expansion programme into new markets, a multi-national education and training company has a requirement for an experienced Business Development and Marketing Executive to work with us in our head office in Yorkshire. Ideally, we require a seasoned Management Professional with a proven track record in strategic development and marketing. Our core business is Excellence in Education and lifelong learning through the Outdoors. Training and Program delivery; Forest Schools, BeachSchools and Social Forestry.

As the Business Development and Marketing Executive you will be responsible for developing the business side of this forward thinking, revolutionary education and training company by dealing with the numerous business opportunities which are presented to us on an on-going basis throughout the year.

Business expectations

· Help our organisation increase its market share, maintain its market position, increase profitability and extend services and products to become as successful as is possible both in the UK and in the ever expanding global market.

· You will rely upon in-depth knowledge of business theories to allow our enterprises to grow.

· You will evaluate the current performance of all areas of the business and develop innovative ways in which it should be changed in order for it to reach its full potential.

· The role will require you to perform thorough assessments of the current marketing opportunities and research the identities of specific target markets.

· Will gather informative data about customer trends and tastes, as well as information about the competition in each market in which the business is involved. However, your role will require you to be responsible for how this collected data is used. You will decide whether the collated data shows sufficient support to allow a new product to be launched and, if it does, they will be in charge with the initiating and implementing this project.

· You will also be responsible for monitoring the outcome of each business activity, monitoring the activity in the market and see how actual sales meet or contradict established business models. These models will usually have been designed by you as the manager, in association with other managers and you will be responsible for making alterations if necessary.

· Be responsible for attracting new customers, many of whom may not have been targeted by the business before.

· Will create and subsequently deliver impressive presentations and will also take part in negotiations with potential clients.

· we wish to provide wrap around provision to increase the re integration of our products and service by existing customers and wish to work in a more strategic level in the education and care fields

· Particularly required to have experience and proven track record and will be responsible for the bottom line and increasing the profit of the company.

· Knowledge of international business and product placement and marketing is essential to the role. We require you to be able to work nationally and potentially internationally and there will be a need to travel as we develop new markets globally.

· Is competent in terms of website design, development and SEO through analytical research of market positioning and to be able to optimise globally

· Knowledge of marketing and producing marketing plans by which to establish targets and monitor successful trends within the company as well as to keep ahead of competitions and to guarantee market share throughout the UK and Internationally

· Develop innovative ways of working strategically with schools, education, media and government across the UK initially, with the intention of expanding this globally.

Salary

Business Development and Marketing Executives can expect to earn a healthy salary. However, the precise salary will depend upon the individual and the amount of experience held by you. The Business Development and Marketing Executive can expect to earn between £20,000 to £40,000 depending on experience and references. The position will be subject to 6 monthly reviews and is target sensitive. If you are motivated by challenges and work well under pressure then this may be the perfect job for you.

There is a pension and a bonus opportunity for the right person

Responsiblities

The typical tasks required by the Business Development and Marketing Executive include, though are not exhaustive:

· Keeping up to date with economic and business developments throughout the working day

· Keeping up to date with overall business trends

· Performing research into the market, customer trends, and competition in the market
· Using quantitative and qualitative techniques to collect useful information

· Deciding whether or not this research is useful and using it as necessary

· Preparing detailed business plans which cover relevant goals and objectives

· Looking after the company's financial resources and allocating them as appropriate

· Liaising with other professionals in the company and in other companies, including account managers

· Networking with employees from other organisations and potential customers

· Attending workshops and trade fairs

· Planning the business training and marketing campaigns for each product
· Social Media Optimisation (SMO) and experience using Adobe Creative Suites preferred!

Qualifications

There are no specific qualifications however, a business related degree would be helpful, though experience and a successful track record is much more essential to our company. Good GSCE and A Level grades will be expected.

Skills
The Business Development and Marketing Executive will possess the following skills:

· Good communication skills

· Good interpersonal skills

· Good business knowledge

· Negotiation skills

· Tact and diplomacy

· Creativity

· A good grasp of numbers and the ability to write documents in a professional style

· Organisational skills

· A hunger to stay up to date with the economic matters in the industry and political relevance

· The ability to stay calm under pressure and meet tight deadlines

· The ability to keep objectives and goals firmly in sight

· The ability to remain flexible and seek alternative options to problems

· Problem solving skill
· Ability to work in a variety of formal and informal conditions

· Understand and respect for the differing roles and qualities in others working in the organisation and a willingness to support and motivate at all times

The job can be stressful, since the position is a senior one within our company. Individuals will often have to work to tight deadlines and will be held responsible for a company's success or failure to grow successfully and quickly. However, it is also an interesting job and you will find it very rewarding and stimulating. You will be able to work on your own initiative and present ideas and strategies as well as to monitor them and analyse their success. You will be responsible for the success of these strategies and this will provide an added edge to the role.

You will work to a 9 to 5 timetable but overtime and weekend work will be required and necessary at busy times and is expected.

Experience

Previous experience in a managerial position will be presented on your CV, as will general experience in sales, marketing, and/or accounting. General knowledge of how a business like ours is run will help you in your position and experience in one of numerous departments within an organisation is essential for those interested in becoming a successful business development manager in our company.

Application via covering letter and CV to: jen@archimedes-training.co.uk

Or via post to:

Sarah Blackwell CEO

Archimedes Training Ltd
Suite 4
SheffieldTechnologyPark
Arundel Street
Sheffield
S1 2NS
Closing Date: 3.13pm 31st January 2013

Interviews will take place in early February and we will have a shortlisting process where selected candidates will be asked to attend a first round interview and then a second shortlisting to return for a second more practical process where you will be able to demonstrate your knowledge, skills and understanding in more detail.

Whole Education Conference - a must visit!

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 11:21:00 +0000

Dear All

As you may know, we are Partners with Whole Education, a non-profit organisation committed to ensuring that all young people have access to a broad, fully rounded education that prepares them for life and work in the 21st century.

We'd like to invite you all to attend Whole Education's upcoming Regional Conferences, for which we are able to offer all our contacts a 10% discount using the following discount code: Archimedes10

At these one day conferences, education leaders will share how being bold and taking more innovative approaches do not just develop student engagement and wider skills but also deliver in more conventional ways. Dates / locations are as follows:

• Midlands Regional Conference, Coventry: Wed 27th February

• Northern Regional Conference, Bradford: Thurs 28th February

• Southern Regional Conference, London: Wed 6th March

Speakers include Professor Tim Brighouse, Baroness Estelle Morris, Nick Hudson DCS for the Yorkshire and Humber and North East, with input from senior leaders from Whole Education's Pathfinder Schools including Angela Armytage: Yewlands Technology College, Alan Yellup: Wakefield City Academy, Mark Lovatt: Cramlington Learning Village, and Carl Jarvis: Hartsholme Academy among many others. You will also hear about the exciting work of Whole Education's Partner organisations.

For more information please click on the hyperlinks above through which you'll be able to access the relevant flyer, or contact Jo Dale on 0207 250 8053 / jo@wholeeducation.org. To book online, click here: North, Midlands, South.

We hope you'll be able to make it!

Best wishes

The Archimedes Team

FSA Logo Competition

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 09:20:00 +0000

Please see below a message from the new FSA Development Officer:

The FSA needs a logo to help with its branding and promotion on the website and in newsletters etc. Going to a professional designer can be expensive and it is also hard to communicate to them the spirit of Forest School and our members. So, the Exec has agreed to put this out to the membership in the form of a competition. After all, Forest School people are a creative bunch - right? The designer of the wining logo will get 5 years free membership.

So, what is the brief for the logo design?

Firstly, the logo should try to communicate the following.

• The FSA is an inclusive, democratic membership organisation open to all levels of Forest School professional and supporters of Forest School

• We are the UK wide voice for Forest School

• We promote and support 'quality forest school for all'

The logo will be used to emphasise that the FSA is a unique and separate organisation. We are not a training provider and we are not offering delivery of FS. Our role is to support those who do and to give a UK wide voice to Forest School. Many of you will have your own logos promoting what you do. It is not surprising that the colour green, tree/s, leaves and people feature heavily in these designs. The FSA needs to stand out from the branding of the FS professionals and companies.

Can you keep it simple?

So what are the rules?

1. Anyone can enter this competition - you do not need to be an FSA member

2. You can enter up to 4 designs.

3. The design must not infringe on anyone else's intellectual property or copyright.

4. The design does not have to be your own work - you can get friends and family to help you (an activity over Christmas?).

5. Designs must be submitted in a digital format by email to the office email address (enquiries@forestschoolassociation.org). This means that you can submit a digital photograph of your design, which may be created in traditional media like pen and paper or ink/paint. Designs built in graphics software are also very welcome.

6. Each entry must include a name and contact details in the email. Only your name will be publicised although we can call you Anon if you prefer (let us know).

7. Entries will be short-listed by the Exec - how many we short list down to will depend on how many entries we get. Short-listing will be based on how well the design matches the brief, how easily the design can be used in our branding and promotional materials. There will also be a subjective element on how attractive the design is.

8. The short listed entries will be sent to the members via email. The members will vote on their preferred design (voting method to be decided).

9. In the unlikely event of a tie the FSA board will decide the winner - the Chair will have the casting vote.

10. All entries must be received by Monday 15th January 2013. We hope to be able to notify the winner in February.

11. By entering your design you are agreeing that the FSA can use it for any purpose and that the design can be altered in any way (we are likely to make changes to it to suit our formatting, marketing and branding needs).

12. We reserve the right not to use the winning entry as the final logo.

13. By entering, entrants will be deemed to have agreed to be bound by these rules and the FSA reserves the right to exclude any entry from the competition at any time and in its absolute discretion if the FSA has reason to believe that an entrant has breached these rules.

14. The FSA reserves the right to cancel this competition or alter any of the rules at any stage, if deemed necessary in its opinion, and if circumstances arise outside of its control.

Welcome to our New Websites!

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 16:21:00 +0000

We hope you enjoy our new improved websites! Please bear with us while we work out a few teething problems. In the new year we will have everything sorted!

We hope you all having a fantastic Christmas and new year! Please note the office is now closed until the 2nd January 2013.

All the best,

The Archimedes Team

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 16:59:00 +0000

We will be closing the office from 5pm on the 21st December and reopening on the 2nd January 2013.

We would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all at Archimedes Training!

x

Forest Schools Northern Ireland - Information Session

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Tue, 27 Nov 2012 09:37:00 +0000

Information Session 28th November 2012 at the Camphill Community Glencraig

Over the last year the Camphill Community Glencraig has been involved with other schools in a Forest School Project based at Glencraig. This project h...as been a great success and we are hoping to expand it next year, see attached report for information about the 1st Phase of the Project. It is our intention to run a Level 3 Forest School Leaders Course at Glencraig in the Spring of 2013. If you would like to find out more about this course and the development of the Forest School approach you are very welcome to come to an information session on the 28th November at the address below. Sarah Blackwell from Archimedes Training in England will give a presentation (see attached bio and/or go to the following website: http://www.forestschools.com/index.php).

There will be two sessions one in the morning from 10 – 12.30 am and one in the afternoon from 2.30 – 5.00 pm. If you wish to attend please complete the reply slip below and return it to me by the 26th November, both sessions will cover the same areas.

If you are aware of other people who maybe interested in this event please pass on this email to them or send me their contact details.

Regards,

Vincent Reynolds

Camphill Community Glencraig

4 Seahill Road, Holywood, Co. Down,

BT18 0DB, N. Ireland.

Tel: 0289 0423396

Fax: 028 90428199

Reply Slip:

Name of Person(s) Wish to attend Info’ Session on 28th Nov at 10am

Wish to attend Info’ Session on 28th Nov at 2.30pm

Not able to attend Info’ Session but require further Info’

Your Contact Details

Name of Person:

School/Organisation:

Tel:

Email:

Address:

Funding Available for Forest Schools Training for Derbyshire Schools!

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Fri, 23 Nov 2012 12:04:00 +0000

Funded training places are available for Derbyshire schools, nurseries, children’s centres, settings and sites and the course will be delivered by Archimedes Traning.

The places are being funded by Derbyshire County Council.

To apply, contact Derbyshire Environmental Studies Service on 01629 533439 or...

email forestschools@derbyshire.gov.uk / sarah.keogh@derbyshire.gov.uk.

You can download an application from their blog site http://forestschools.wordpress.com/

DEADLINE: Monday 10th December

Royal Forestry Society Schools Award

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 16:14:00 +0000

Coyote's Guide to Connecting With Nature - Now on sale from the Archimedes Shop

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 16:08:00 +0000

By Jon Young, Evan McGown and Ellen Haas.

In today's modern world many children are suffering from something Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods, describes as 'nature deficit disorder'. Coyote's Guide gives parents, teachers, counselors, guides and mentors, a blueprint to easily design an amazing learning experience that fits the people taking part and the place.

The book features a Mentor's Manual and an Activity Guide. The mentor's manual teaches you to become the Coyote Mentor to your students, experimenting with creative approaches to get children connecting with nature, getting to know them and helping them push their boundaries. You will learn how to encourage children to learn from the 'invisible school' i.e. the nature all around you. Each activity is primed with a story and goes well beyond “How-to,” taking you “Inside the Mind of the Mentor” and out to “Alternatives and Extensions.”

This book is very highly regarded in America, has much critical acclaim and has become extremely sought after. The book is not readily available in the UK and will set you back £45 elsewhere.

Coyote's Guide would make the perfect Christmas present for anyone interested in outdoor learning and connecting children with nature. Pre-order before 30th November for Christmas delivery at a reduced price of £29.99! (Normal price £34.99, books will be delivered in mid-December.)

PRE ORDER NOW FROM THE ARCHIMEDES SHOP HERE

Free Forest Schools Information Evening - Sheffield

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 10:16:00 +0000

Presentation Title: The challenge of a stick, the reflection of a puddle!
Using the Natural environment to nurture, to inspire and to motivate connection, learning and resilience

By Sarah Blackwell, CEO
Archimedes Training

The presentation will consist of :

Introduction to Archimedes Forest Schools, ethos, philosophy and principles
The elements of change - making learning exciting
Benefits and Applications – the challenge to teachers to challenge children to learn and to think - Training and Practice
Dialogue

The evening will provide an excellent networking opportunity for heads, deputy heads, nursery managers and early years practitioners to meet with a range of local schools in the area whilst finding out how you can start implementing Outdoor Learning and Forest Schools into your setting.

Location: Sheffield Technology Parks, Cooper Buildings, Arundel Street, Sheffield, S1 2NS (3 minute walk from Sheffield Train Station)

Date: 21st November 2012

Times: 4pm-5.30pm

Cost: FREE

Booking is essential as places are strictly limited. Please email jen@archimedes-training.co.uk to reserve your place.

Potential Funding Available:

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 14:55:00 +0000

24+ Advanced Learning Loans

The Government is introducing 24+ Advanced Learning Loans for learners aged 24 and above in further education and training studying at Level 3 and above, including Advanced and Higher Apprenticeships, for those starting their course or apprenticeship on or after 1 August 2013.

24+ Advanced Learning Loans will replace government grants for this group, who represent around 10% of learners. Younger learners and those seeking to gain basic qualifications at Level 2 and below will continue to be funded by the grants they don’t have to pay back.

24+ Advanced Learning Loans will cover the cost of tuition, so learners do not have to pay upfront. Interest on the loans will be lower than anything available on the high street and linked to inflation. Any balance outstanding is written off after 30 years.

For more information on 24+ Advanced Learning Loans policy please visit BIS website.

________________________________________

24+ Advanced Learning Loans Consumer Protection Research

The Skills Funding Agency commissioned the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) to conduct detailed research into 24+ Advanced Learning Loans and the impact on protecting both providers and learners. The research is now available:

NIACE 24+ Advanced Learning Loans Consumer Protection Research

________________________________________

24+ Advanced Learning Loans Seminar Programme - November/December 2012

Following the success and positive feedback of the July 2012 seminars, the Skills Funding Agency is pleased to announce a further series of seminars, beginning in November 2012 that will help providers to prepare for the introduction of 24+ Advanced Learning Loans (Loans).

The provider readiness programme is aimed at supporting providers with specific operational information and updates on the wider aspects of Loans. The programme has also been designed to incorporate an initial session from the Learning Skills Improvement Service (LSIS) support package. The seminars are free of charge to Agency funded providers, sub-contractors and direct grant employers. Further seminars will be announced in early 2013 to make sure that providers are ready for the roll-out from April 2013.

Where and when are the seminars?

The dates for Loans Autumn seminars including registration deadline are as follows:

DATE AREA VENUE REGISTRATION CLOSING DATE

19 November Central Eastern Cambridge Belfry 07 November 2012

23 November South Central Macdonald Botley Park Golf & Country Club, Southampton 14 November 2012

26 November London Victoria Park Plaza, London 16 November 2012

26 November Yorkshire and Humberside Park Plaza, Leeds 16 November 2012

27 November East Midlands The Nottingham Belfry 16 November 2012

29 November Liverpool, Cumbria and Lancashire Preston Marriott 19 November 2012

03 December Thames Valley Blue Mountain Golf Centre 22 November 2012

03 December Manchester, Cheshire/ Warrington and Staffordshire Portland Thistle, Manchester 22 November 2012

04 December South East Thistle, Brands Hatch 23 November 2012

10 December South West The Rougemont Hotel by Thistle Exeter 29 November 2012

11 December North East The Village Hotel, Newcastle 30 November 2012

11 December West Midlands etc.venues Maple House 30 November 2012

Booking details and further information

If you require further information, or would like to register for a seminar, please visit the registration website.

________________________________________

Frequently Asked Questions

The Policy Overview and Frequently Asked Questions document provides colleges, training organisations, employers (as Apprenticeship providers) and National Careers Service advisers with an overview of 24+ Advanced Learning Loans and responses to frequently asked questions raised specifically regarding the policy and implementation of Loans through various channels.

This document supplements the BIS monthly updates on Loans and replaces the previous guide and updated frequently asked questions released by the Agency in December 2011, February 2012 and May 2012.

We will continue to update this document regularly with any additional questions raised.

________________________________________

24+ Advanced Learning Loans – Funding Rules 2013/14 – Draft Version

• 24+ Advanced Learning Loans: Draft Funding Rules

In preparation for the launch of 24+ Advanced Learning Loans (Loans) application system in April 2013, the Agency is committed to sharing with the sector, at an early stage, the funding rules that will be applicable to Loans-funded provision in 2013/14.

In order to deliver this commitment, and to ensure that the final rules are both robust and clear to all, the Agency has produced a first draft of the Loans funding rules alongside background information on processes and procedures.

If you identify any specific areas within the funding rules which require further clarification, please direct these to the Funding Systems Team by 6 November 2012.

The final Funding Rules for 2013/14, of which specific funding rules on Loans will be a chapter, will be published by the end of January 2013.

________________________________________

24+ Advanced Learning Loans Seminar Programme - July 2012

The Skills Funding Agency and Student Loans Company, in partnership with the Department for Business Innovation and Skills, Association of Colleges, Association of Employment and Learning Providers and Learning and Skills Improvement Service, ran four seminars across the country during July 2012. The aim of the seminars was to inform colleges and training organisations about the implementation of 24+ Advanced Learning Loans.

The seminars were well attended with nearly 600 delegates from colleges, independent training organisations, local authorities, employers as providers and third sector providers coming to Birmingham, London, Reading and Leeds. Over 90% of delegates reported the seminars were good or excellent.

A post-seminar information pack to help you prepare for the introduction of loans is now available and includes the following:

• Post-seminar report

• Videos from the Seminar

• Seminar presentation slides

• Presentation supporting notes.

I hope you find this information useful!

Regards,
Jen

Photo Competition: Win £100 towards Training with Archimedes

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 12:20:00 +0000

Theme: Autumnal Fun in the Outdoors!

You can interpret the theme in any way you see fit. Include your name and a caption: who, what, where and when will be fine and email your photo(s) to jen@archimedes-training.co.uk. The winner will be announced in next months newsletter and an album of all the runner up photos will be displayed on our Facebook page.

Deadline for all submissions will be 1pm on the 29th November 2012 and the winner will be awarded £100 of credit towards any Archimedes Training course (or equivalent value in Australian/NZ dollars). Get in touch if you have any questions and good luck!!

Please note that Archimedes Training reserve the right to use any photographs submitted for promotional purposes and marketing. Any photos of children submitted must have parental consent for them to be used in such a way and be accompanied by a signed statement outlining that parental consent has been sought. When taking photos, please do not endanger yourself or others, take unnecessary risks or infringe any laws.

Natural Childhood Summit

noreply@blogger.com (Forest Schools) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 15:17:00 +0000

The Natural Childhood Summit took place in London on the 26th September and was a gathering of some of the most important organisations nationally in terms of creating real world impacts. It`s aim was to seek collaborative ways of creating opportunities and support for increased contact time with nature, in all its forms, with speakers raising the benefits of increased experiences and concern over the future if big efforts are not made now.

What was clear from the day was both the depth and breadth of organisations working in the field but also the intricacies of creating combined efforts. My hope is that from this event many new partnerships and projects will be formed, perhaps some which would not have been envisioned without it.

Chris Packham clearly took to the stage with the most feverish passion about children spending time in nature, regaling us with stories of his childhood, discovering school groups being made to wear marigolds and the underlying messages we are giving, or are indeed not giving, the younger generation about getting hands on and muddy with wildlife. Perhaps the most surprising speaker of the day was David Bond, the Marketing Director for Nature no less, who wowed and enthralled us with his novel efforts and innovation in “selling” nature to families. Tim Gill shared his insights into the benefit-risk relationship and it`s value to everyone, not just children before Professor DePledge gave us a roundup of the statistical backdrop which we are working in.

The afternoon brought together representatives from across the country and spectrum of organisations into workshops to develop ideas based around the fears, hopes and questions which came from local children. The plethora of ideas were shared amongst all those gathered and are hopefully well on their way from making it from inspiration into application.

Archimedes is proud to have been involved in this important development in the national debate on how we can inspire the next generation to become engrained and enthused with nature, which as put by Chris Packem, “If they’ve never had it, what are they going to fight for?”