From Overgrown Land to Outdoor Learning: Inside W.I.S.E. Forest School in Japan What happens when you look at an overgrown piece of land and see possibility? In this special Tour & Talk episode of The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast, I’m joined by Robert from W.I.S.E. Forest School in Wakayama, Japan, for a conversation about creating a place where children can learn, explore, take risks, and build a relationship with the natural world. Through photographs of the W.I.S.E. environment, Robert takes us behind the scenes of the space—sharing how it began, how it has evolved, and how the children themselves continue to shape it. We talk about child-led learning, Forest School philosophy, sustainability, appropriate risk, learning through the seasons, and the intersection of Robert’s British roots with his work in Japan. Most importantly, we explore a question at the heart of every outdoor classroom: How do we create spaces that aren't simply made for children—but can truly become theirs? Whether you have access to a forest, a playground, a courtyard, or one small patch of green, Robert's story is a beautiful reminder that outdoor learning doesn't begin with having the perfect space. It begins with seeing possibility. W.I.S.E. Forest SchoolW.I.S.E. (Wakayama International School of English) Forest School opened in spring 2024 in Kimiidera, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture, as Japan's first and only all-English "British International Forest School" incorporating a British curriculum. Based on W.I.S.E.'s philosophy of "high-quality English education at an affordable price," we go beyond the boundaries of an English school to learn English not just by learning English itself, but by broadening our perspective globally and learning many things practically through English. In a nature-immersed environment, you can be free and true to yourself. We aim to be a "one-of-a-kind" presence that nurtures not only English proficiency but also individuality, confidence, the ability to survive in modern society, and independence. Meet Rob SenseiRob is from England, the UK, and has travelled the world extensively since 2009. He has taught English and Geography in UK primary schools and various other countries. He majored in BA Geography with honors at university and earned a Master's degree in Environmental Science from graduate school in England. From childhood to now, Rob has loved nature through fishing, camping, mountain climbing, conservation and education. He chose "Forest School" as a place to pass on his extensive knowledge and experience to the next generation. Connect with Robert & W.I.S.E. Website: W.I.S.E. Forest School Instagram: @w.i.s.e._english_wakayama Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links:🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community Connect with Victoria:Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com Instagram Facebook Sponsorship Opportunities:If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com to learn more. Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!
