The Forest School Podcast

Lewis Ames and Wem Southerden
The Forest School Podcast

Wem Southerden & Lewis Ames have run Forest School and training centre Children of the Forest since 2017. The Forest School Podcast was born when they wondered if their daily wafflechats and reflections about pedagogy, play and nature connection might be of interest to others. The podcast aims to inform and support educators, parents, outdoor and play practitioners and anyone interested in nature and the outdoors. Through book reviews – interviews with experts, practitioners and authors – sharing our experience as educators and business owners – deep dives on fascinating topics –

  1. DEC 13

    Ep 202: Can Rory Sutherland's 'Alchemy' Transform your Forest School Business?

    Welcome back to the Forest School Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the intriguing ideas from Rory Sutherland's book Alchemy and explore how they can transform your Forest School practice. From the power of creative chaos to the impact of trust and training, this episode offers fresh perspectives for Forest School leaders, educators, and nature enthusiasts alike. 🌿 Join Lewis as he unpacks the concept of "scenting the soap," the role of placebos in Forest School, and the importance of heuristics in developing intuition and resilience in natural learning environments. Discover actionable insights and practical tips for enhancing your sessions and deepening connections with your participants. 🌲 Sponsorship Segment This episode is proudly brought to you by our amazing sponsors: TENTSILE: Transform your outdoor adventures with TENTSILE’s innovative hammock tents. Perfect for Forest School leaders and nature enthusiasts, these tents combine comfort, durability, and sustainability. Use code ForestChildren10 for a 10% discount on your next purchase. Explore their range at www.tentsile.com. 🌳 Chris Holland: Discover Chris Holland’s 54-page Plant Guide, an invaluable resource for identifying and celebrating nature’s flora. Get your copy at Chris’s Affiliate Link and use code FORESTPOD for a 15% discount. 🍃 ⏱ Chapter Timings Introduction and Updates (00:00 - 04:42): Lewis shares podcast updates, including new guests and Patreon exclusives. Creative Chaos and Forest School (09:11 - 11:36): Embracing unpredictability and nature’s role in fostering creativity. Placebos and Scenting the Soap (23:03 - 25:29): How small details, like blankets and rituals, shape participant experiences. Trust, Training, and Marketing (14:00 - 16:21): The importance of signalling commitment and building reputation in Forest School. Developing Heuristics through Play (27:54 - 30:14): Encouraging intuition and flexible thinking in natural learning environments. Closing Thoughts (37:16 - 39:00): Reflections on balancing science and storytelling in Forest School. 📚 Resources Mentioned Alchemy by Rory Sutherland: Find it on Amazon TENTSILE Hammock Tents Chris Holland’s Plant Guide 🌟 Support the Podcast Enjoying the Forest School Podcast? Here’s how you can help us grow: Subscribe: Never miss an episode! Available on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts. 🎧 Review: Leave a 5-star review to help others discover the podcast. ⭐ Share: Spread the word on social media and with your Forest School community. 🦉 Patreon: Join our Patreon for exclusive content, including early access to episodes and CPD resources. Gift subscriptions now available for the holiday season! 🎁 👉 Visit www.forestschoolpodcast.com for more details.

    42 min

  2. NOV 29

    Ep 201: Should YOU Know A Tree As An Individual Or A Species? w/ Casey and Alex from Completely Arbortrary

    ↓Click here for Limited Edition 'Magic in the Mud' merch! ↓ www.children-of-the-forest.com/forestsschoolpodcastshop What does it mean to truly know a tree? In this episode of the Forest School Podcast, we’re joined by Casey Clapp and Alex Crowson, hosts of the Completely Arbortrary podcast, to explore the fascinating tension between knowing trees as species and connecting with them as individuals. With Casey’s arborist expertise and Alex’s creative perspective, this conversation is full of surprising insights and heartwarming anecdotes that will forever change the way you see the trees around you. From personal stories of childhood tree connections (00:46:00) to the science of epicormic growth as a survival strategy (00:13:00), and even the heroic tale of the 250-year-old Overlook Oak saved from development (00:47:00), this episode is a deep dive into the magic of trees. Key moments include Casey’s explanation of how naming a tree can deepen our connection by opening doors to patterns in nature (00:24:00), and Alex’s take on how trees can serve as archetypes, representing broader narratives that connect us to the natural world (00:21:00). We also discuss the role of community in forming collective bonds with specific trees, like the symbolic Robin Hood Tree, and the fascinating cultural significance of heritage trees across the globe (00:32:00). A standout quote from Casey: “When you get to know a tree’s name, it’s like seeing an old friend—you recognize its story and place in the world.” Listeners will walk away with actionable takeaways, including how to introduce children to tree identification, use storytelling to foster emotional connections with nature, and see trees as metaphors for resilience and growth. Resources and tools mentioned include Casey’s upcoming book on urban tree identification, the inspiring story of Australia’s tree billboards, and a nod to Tolkien’s deeply rooted (pun intended) fascination with individual trees. If you’ve ever wondered how trees connect us to the world around us, this is the episode for you! Listen now to be inspired by the stories, science, and symbolism of trees. Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode with your community, and leave a review to support our work. Find us on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and via our RSS feed: 🎙️ Spotify 📺 YouTube 📻 Apple Podcasts 💻 RSS.

    1h 4m

  3. NOV 23

    Ep 200 BONUS: Oops, All Song Wars!

    Dive into the chaos, creativity, and comedy that is Song Wars! In this special episode, we’ve compiled all the musical gems from past episodes, including the hilariously self-indulgent chats that led to their creation. From heartfelt ballads about tagging games to unexpectedly funky anthems about bin juice and wet ropes, this is a Forest School Podcast experience like no other. Whether you’re here for a laugh or want a glimpse into the unfiltered madness of our musical endeavours, you’re in for a treat. What’s Inside (with Timestamps): [00:10] The Birth of Song Wars: Why we started writing these ridiculous songs. [02:08] "Sideways Rain": A love-hate ode to the challenges of outdoor life in the rain. [09:13] "Wind Speed": A manic yet relatable anthem for forest school leaders battling unpredictable weather. [17:06] "Run, Run" – A playful tagging game song capturing the exhaustion and humor of chasing children. [19:06] "Tag, You’re It" – A rap-inspired track from the perspective of a competitive tag player. [23:04] "Bin Juice Blues" – A sensory overload ballad about compost cleanup nightmares. [29:49] "Wet Rope" – A pirate-tinged dance number inspired by the frustrations of knot-tying. [39:32] "The January Blues Song" – A darkly comedic folk track reminding us that winter isn’t over yet. [43:22] Corvid Taxonomy Song: A listener-submitted poetic roast on bird misidentification.

    48 min

  4. NOV 22

    Ep 200: Listener Questions and looking back over 6 years and 200 episodes.

    ↓Click here for Limited Edition 'Magic in the Mud' merch! ↓ www.children-of-the-forest.com/forestsschoolpodcastshop Summary: In this milestone 200th episode, hosts Lewis and Wem reflect on their podcasting journey, discussing the evolution of their content, memorable guest interviews, and the growth of the Forest School movement. They explore the integration of technology in outdoor education, the importance of inclusivity, and share personal anecdotes that have shaped their perspectives. Timestamps: 00:01 – 00:09: Celebrating 200 episodes and the podcast's evolution. 08:50 – 09:30: Memorable guest insights, including Naomi Fisher and Merlin Sheldrake. 13:21 – 14:08: Transition from activity-focused content to deeper discussions. 14:12 – 14:40: Dream field trips to unique outdoor education settings. 21:12 – 22:39: Debate on the role of technology in Forest School. 27:14 – 28:56: Wishlist of future podcast guests, from philosophers to modern educators. 28:40 – 28:54: Philosophical musings on play and education. 18:44 – 19:28: Gratitude to listeners and aspirations for future episodes. Resources Mentioned: Naomi Fisher's Work: Dr. Naomi Fisher is a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma, autism, and alternative learning methods. Explore her publications and insights on her official website: Naomi Fisher Merlin Sheldrake's Research: Merlin Sheldrake is a biologist and author known for his work on fungi and mycorrhizal networks. Learn more about his research and publications here: Merlin Sheldrake Nonviolent Communication: Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is a communication process developed by Marshall Rosenberg. It focuses on empathetic listening and expressing needs without judgment. Find more information at the Center for Nonviolent Communication: For the Wild The Art of Holding Space: This concept involves supporting others without judgment, maintaining an open and empathetic presence. For a comprehensive guide, refer to Heather Plett's work: Subscribe to the Forest School Podcast on your preferred platform to stay updated with our latest episodes. Leave a review to share your thoughts and help others discover the show. Follow us on social media for updates and discussions: Forest School, outdoor education, podcasting journey, inclusivity in education, technology in outdoor learning, nonviolent communication, play-based learning.

    52 min

  5. NOV 18

    Ep 199: How to Handle Unsafe Play in Your Sessions

    When is it okay to step into a child's play? In this episode, we explore the delicate art of intervening in play cycles, discussing when to annihilate or contain play, how to navigate safety concerns, and ways to maintain emotional and physical balance. Join us for actionable insights, real-life scenarios, and strategies for reflective practice that will help you confidently manage play in your Forest School. Perfect for leaders, educators, and playworkers looking to refine their approach! 0:00 – Introduction: Why this episode is essential for Forest School leaders 1:15 – Overview of play cycles and key terms (annihilation, adulteration, containment) 6:00 – When and why to intervene in play cycles 8:30 – Balancing physical and emotional safety during risky play 12:00 – Practical techniques for reflective interventions 18:00 – Containment vs. adulteration: Avoiding adult agendas 19:50 – How to read nonverbal cues to guide interventions 23:00 – Collaborative play observation and group dynamics 26:25 – Strategies for managing hierarchies and power structures in play 30:00 – Wrap-up: Key takeaways and reflection exercises Play Types by Bob Hughes: Learn more here The Play Cycle Handbook by Perry Else and Gordon Sturrock: Purchase here Forest Pedagogy by Jon Cree and Marina Robb: Explore the book Articles on reflective playwork practices: Visit this resource 🌟 Loved this episode? Don’t forget to: Subscribe to our podcast on your favourite platform Leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review to help more listeners find us Join the conversation on social media! Share your thoughts, questions, and stories with us on Instagram and Facebook. Find us everywhere: 🎙️ Spotify: https://shorturl.at/4WdyI 📺 YouTube: https://shorturl.at/3qOUs 📻 Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/FxfMF 💻 RSS: https://shorturl.at/A0kx9 The full transcript for this episode is available here. “Intervening in play isn’t about control—it’s about safeguarding the child’s ability to continue playing safely and joyfully.” “Sometimes, the most impactful intervention is subtle containment: adding or removing a resource to guide play without breaking the flow.” “Reflective practice isn’t just about stopping play; it’s about understanding when to step in and when to step back.”

    43 min

  6. NOV 8

    Ep 198: Is YOUR Outdoor Provision just résumé building for children?

    Summary: In this episode, we explore the purpose of Forest School as a space for children to engage in free play, build social connections, and experience the joy of childhood without the pressures of traditional, outcome-driven education. Discover why Forest School stands as a community resource, supports mental health, and challenges the idea of “resume-building” for children. Episode Highlights: Free Play vs. Structured Learning: How unstructured play in Forest School supports mental health and holistic growth. Forest School as a Community Resource: The ripple effects of Forest School on families and communities, fostering environmental stewardship and shared values. Beyond Resume-Building: The limitations of an achievement-focused childhood and how Forest School offers a different path. The Mental Health Benefits of Nature-Based Learning: Why time spent in nature is essential for children’s well-being and resilience. Embracing “Pissing About”: The value of unstructured, joyful exploration and why it’s a radical act in today’s productivity-focused world. Timestamps: [00:05] Introduction to the theme: Free play and its role in childhood [05:05] Why treating childhood as resume-building affects mental health [11:51] Forest School as a community asset and environmental stewardship [13:24] The importance of unstructured time in Forest School [18:18] Encouraging outdoor leaders to preserve free play Resources Mentioned: Peter Gray’s Research – Gray’s studies on free play, childhood mental health, and inequality “Free to Learn” by Peter Gray – Gray’s book on childhood play and education Forest School Community Hub – Resources and connections for Forest School leaders Key Quotes: “Forest School isn’t about preparing kids for the future; it’s about giving them the space to experience joy and curiosity right now.” “In a world of metrics and outcomes, Forest School stands as a rare place where children can simply be.” Join the Conversation: How do you incorporate free play into your sessions? Join us on social media and share your thoughts! Find us everywhere: 🎙️ Spotify 📺 YouTube 📻 Apple Podcasts 💻 RSS Feed Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with fellow educators to help spread the message of free play and nature-based learning!

    41 min

  7. OCT 31

    Ep 197: Is Verbal Language Bias Shaping Your Forest School?

    Summary In this episode, Lewis explores the biases surrounding verbal and nonverbal communication within the context of forest school training. He discusses the importance of recognizing and addressing these biases to create a more inclusive environment for participants. The conversation delves into various aspects of communication, including play cues, emotional expressions, and the impact of verbal hierarchies. Lewis emphasizes the need for forest school leaders to value nonverbal communication and consider its role in fostering connections among participants. Takeaways The forest school training emphasizes intentional decision-making. Verbal and nonverbal communication biases can impact participant interactions. Non-judgmental approaches are essential in forest school settings. Communication barriers can arise from emotional overwhelm or language differences. Play cues often involve nonverbal communication that should be recognized. Apologies can take many forms beyond verbal expressions. Verbal hierarchies can create barriers in communication with children. Nonverbal communication is a key aspect of forest school leadership. Forest school leaders are uniquely positioned to value nonverbal cues. Reflecting on communication practices can enhance inclusivity. Chapters 00:00 Unpacking Intentional Communication 05:41 Exploring Language Bias in Communication 09:00 The Role of Nonverbal Cues 14:37 Play Cues and Communication Dynamics 17:26 Apologies and Emotional Expressions 20:19 Verbal Hierarchies and Participation 23:42 Nonverbal Communication in Nature 26:39 Reflecting on Practice and Inclusivity 42:13 Exploring Bias in Communication 42:44 Engagement with Participants 43:11 Community and Reflective Practices 43:22 podcast clips rooster.mp3

    44 min

  8. OCT 24

    196: Why YOUR School Needs More Stories Like Jojo & Gran Gran with Laura Henry-Allain

    Summary: In this episode of The Forest School Podcast, host Lewis Ames sits down with Laura Henry-Allain MBE, author, consultant, and creator of the beloved children’s show Jojo & Gran Gran. They explore the importance of representation in early years education, how to create inclusive learning environments, and why conversations about diversity should start early. Laura shares practical advice for parents and educators, emphasizing the power of storytelling in fostering empathy and understanding. Tune in to learn how YOU can make a difference in your classroom, Forest School, or home learning environment. Key Takeaways: The role of diverse stories in shaping children's understanding of the world. How to introduce age-appropriate conversations about race and inclusion. Practical ways to make your learning environment a space where every child feels seen. The “mirrors, windows, and sliding doors” approach to representation in books. Why outdoor educators should consider diverse experiences when designing activities. Timestamps: [01:26] – Laura introduces herself and her journey in early years education. [03:19] – The creation of Jojo & Gran Gran and its impact on diverse storytelling. [07:06] – Discussing the importance of diversity in books and media for children. [14:03] – Why it’s crucial to talk about race with young children. [18:02] – How parents can be anti-racist role models through everyday actions. [27:15] – Laura’s guide for early years educators on promoting inclusion. [37:47] – Reflections on Laura's grandmother’s legacy and its influence on her work. Guest Information: Laura Henry-Allain MBE is a celebrated author and early years consultant known for her work in children's media and literature. She is the creator of the TV series Jojo & Gran Gran, which highlights the importance of familial bonds and cultural representation. Laura has written several books that explore themes of inclusion and diversity, such as My Skin, Your Skin. Connect with Laura on her website laurahanryelaine.com. Links to Resources Mentioned: Jojo & Gran Gran (TV Series) My Skin, Your Skin by Laura Henry-Allain MBE Research on early childhood development and race recognition Call to Action: Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to The Forest School Podcast and leave us a review! Share this episode with fellow educators and parents to help spread the message of inclusion in early years education. Follow the links to listen: 🎙️ Spotify 📺 YouTube 📻 Apple Podcasts 💻 RSS Feed

    47 min
See All (206)

Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Wem Southerden & Lewis Ames have run Forest School and training centre Children of the Forest since 2017. The Forest School Podcast was born when they wondered if their daily wafflechats and reflections about pedagogy, play and nature connection might be of interest to others. The podcast aims to inform and support educators, parents, outdoor and play practitioners and anyone interested in nature and the outdoors. Through book reviews – interviews with experts, practitioners and authors – sharing our experience as educators and business owners – deep dives on fascinating topics –

Information

  • Creator
    Lewis Ames and Wem Southerden
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2024
  • Episodes
    206
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Lewis Ames and Wem Southerden
  • Show Website
    The Forest School Podcast

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada