First in a series of short blogs about the FSRS event
The symposium was a great gathering with rich contributions and conversations. Wonderful to meet practitioners and researchers from other countries, to hear about the exciting outcomes they are witnessing, challenges they face and lessons they are learning. It was hugely encouraging to hear about and read research from the UK; some from and involving FSA members. I was especially interested to learn more about the special nature of Forest School practice and how it is changing outcomes for autistic young people. As a trainer supporting trainee Forest School leaders to evaluate research this was a golden opportunity to learn from experts as they shared the pitfalls and weaknesses of their own work alongside the opportunities they see for further robust research. Wonderful to witness how many researchers were citing others in the room; Mel McCree has clearly inspired other Forest School practitioners to get involved in academic research. Francis Harris drew out key themes and Dr Sara Knight, FSA Ambassador, helped us consider the need for interdisciplinary research. This felt like the start of an important new chapter of the Forest School story. I feel hugely proud that this has been envisioned by FSA staff and members. Working collaboratively with a team of academics and the team at Liverpool University, Nic has made Forest School history. As the professional association for Forest School we have taken a risk, because we believed the benefits would be huge. I believe with careful nurturing of relationships, openness to diversity and the willingness to keep learning we will build on this work with academic colleagues in service of the FSA to support members and advocate for quality Forest School.
