Learning Approaches

Langley Forest School follows the Forest Canada pedagogy. There are 4 main pillars:

1. Child-Emergent
2. Play-Based
3. Environment is the Teacher
4. Supported ‘Risky’ Play

Using these learning approaches, forest children will:

• Develop reflexive and inquisitive thinking along with problem-solving approaches in ‘real’ situations
• Develop communication, team-building and collaborative working skills
• Develop resilience and adaptability
• Become good at assessing situations and identifying hazards versus risks
• Develop self awareness, confidence and self-esteem
• Grow to love, appreciate and respect their forest, flora and fauna
• Develop a lifelong love of the outdoors, becoming environmental stewards
• Develop gross and fine motor skills, recognizing and admiring the body’s limitations and abilities
• Expect both physical and mental health benefits

Preschool: Ages 3-5

Langley Forest School offers outdoor preschool to children aged 3-5 yrs. Families may choose to attend either the Monday and Wednesday class or the Tuesday and Thursday class (two days per week) or both classes, attending four days per week, Monday to Thursday. A Friday only programme is also available as a choice option. This class may be taken on its own or added to any 2 or 4 day option (total of 3 or 5 days). Classes run from 9:30am-1:30pm rain, shine or snow. Children must be three years and three months and be fully potty trained at school start. Preschool children must be under 5 years of age at the time of registration, but can turn 5 during the school year

Outdoor Experience Days (OED): Ages 5-7

Langley Forest School offers outdoor experience days to children aged five to seven years (eligible from kindergarten to grade two).

OEDs run each Friday from 9:30am – 2:00pm for 10 classes in the term. There is a fall and spring term each school year. Term one runs mid-September to mid-November and term two from April to mid-June (varies based on Spring Break dates).

Application for the OED programme opens 3rd week of January. Families may place their child on both the Fall and Spring waitlists at the time of application if they choose.