Forest schools in Hong Kong provide a unique and immersive learning experience for children, combining education with the wonders of nature. Inspired by the Scandinavian education system, these schools aim to develop a lifelong relationship with the natural world through hands-on experiences in forests, woodlands, meadows, and beaches. Children are encouraged to explore, play, and take supported risks in a safe and nurturing environment. By fostering curiosity, creativity, and resilience, forest schools nurture a deep appreciation for the environment and instill a sense of stewardship. Experience the transformative power of nature-based education for your child in Hong Kong’s forest schools.
Among the notable forest schools in Hong Kong, Forest School Sai Kung stands out as a renowned institution that provides a holistic approach to learning in a natural setting. Another highly recommended choice is HK Forest Adventure, where children can engage in exciting outdoor activities while gaining valuable knowledge about the environment. For families interested in alternative educational philosophies, Waldorf School Hong Kong and Forest House Waldorf School offer nature-based programs that focus on the well-rounded development of students. These schools emphasize a hands-on approach to learning, instilling creativity and a deep connection with the natural world.
If you’re searching for the best forest schools in Hong Kong, it’s important to consider both tuition fees and reviews from other parents. Conducting thorough research will help you determine the most suitable option for your child’s educational journey. Immerse your children in the beauty of nature and provide them with a memorable and enriching education. Explore the forest schools in Hong Kong and discover the transformative power of nature-based learning.
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Malvern College Pre-School Hong Kong believes that access to an outdoor environment is as important to a child’s well-being and developmental growth as a conventional classroom setting. It is one of the first schools in Hong Kong to operate a Forest-Beach School program, managed by Level 3 certified Forest School leaders. This outdoor program is built on a philosophy of child-led learning, with a focus on all five senses, and runs in all safe weather conditions.
At Malvern College Pre-School Hong Kong, nature, the outdoors, and open spaces become the children’s temporary classrooms. Educational sessions are designed around a theme typically linked to the curriculum. Teamwork, intra-, and interpersonal skills are developed through games and group activities such as hide-and-seek or scavenger hunts. Self-esteem, as well as individual practical and intellectual skills, are enhanced through supervised activities like shelter building, tool handling, or lighting fires.
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Mulberry House Kindergarten is proud to introduce the Mulberry House Kindergarten Outdoor Education Programme, a fundamental component of its holistic approach to children's development and learning. The program is built on the belief that outdoor education plays a pivotal role in fostering children's love for nature, enhancing their skills, and enriching their educational journey.
This forest school initiative caters to children aged 2 to 6, encompassing Pre-Nursery to K3 levels, and emphasizes a play-based curriculum inspired by the natural world. Experienced and qualified educators who are passionate about outdoor education lead the program. Throughout the school year, children will embark on outings to various outdoor settings, including farms, forests, and rivers. These excursions provide hands-on learning experiences, promoting physical activity, teamwork, creativity, problem-solving, self-confidence, and an understanding of the environment.
To learn more about this enriching program or to schedule a visit, contact Mulberry House Kindergarten at +852 5598 0909. Join Mulberry House Kindergarten and nurture your child's connection with the wonders of the natural world!
Mulberry House International Kindergarten, Tai Po Campus: Mayfair By The Sea I, 23 Fo Chun Road, Tai Po | Southside Campus: Ocean Court, 3 Aberdeen Praya Road, Aberdeen + 852 5598 0909, hello@mhgedu.com, www.mulberryhousekg.com
The significance of nature at Wilderness International Kindergarten lies in its capacity to nurture a sense of wonder, promote inquiry-based learning, support holistic development, and instill a lifelong love and respect for the natural world.
Every day, students are provided with the opportunity to explore the outdoor garden space, equipped with sensory play, imaginative play, and process art stations. This beautiful garden not only supports the development of critical thinking skills but also stimulates the senses, ignites imagination and creativity, and fosters holistic development.
In their Reggio-Emilia-inspired environment, they prioritize play and a connection to nature, placing a strong emphasis on the social and emotional well-being, as well as positive self-esteem, of their children. As a result, students at Wilderness leave with the confidence to try new things, initiate ideas, and collaborate with others. They become more aware of their own needs, views, and feelings, while also developing sensitivity to the needs, views, and feelings of others.
Wilderness International Kindergarten, 85 Smithfield Road, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong, +852 2595 9066, admissions@wilderness.asia, www.wilderness.asia
Recognized as a global leader in outdoor education, International College Hong Kong Hong Lok Yuen (ICHKHLY) is an international Kindergarten and Primary School set amidst beautiful grounds in the New Territories. Winner of the 2023 International Schools Award for its onsite Mini Forest and Forest School Leadership Centre, ICHKHLY integrates nature into every aspect of learning.
Both Kindergarten and Primary students enjoy multiple opportunities to connect with and learn from nature in meaningful ways. Inspired by David Suzuki's belief that reconnecting children with the natural world is essential for its protection, ICHKHLY offers a holistic environment where students thrive academically, physically, socially, and emotionally, while fostering a deep appreciation for nature.
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ICHK Hong Lok Yuen (Kindergarten and Primary), 3 Twentieth Street, Hong Lok Yuen, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong, +852 3955 3000, +852 2651 0836 (Fax), info@ichkhly.edu.hk, admissions@ichkhly.edu.hk, https://ichkhly.edu.hk/
More and more schools are offering The Forest School Program highlighting the demand by parents for kids to explore their environment more - and get out of the classroom and explore with nature. A list of schools offering The Forest School is below!
ICHK Hong Lok Yuen: Forest School In Hong Lok Yuen, Hong Kong
For those who have not visited this gem of a school in the New Territories, now is the time. The gorgeous green campus is perfectly situated for outdoor learning. Innovative work is now underway to establish their very own Forest School and outdoor classroom on their grounds. Partnerships with Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Gardens are also in the works. They are also the first accredited Forest School's Leadership Centre outside the UK and the first school in Hong Kong to earn the Forest School Leadership Centre certification.
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Leapfrog Kindergarten: Forest School In Sai Kung, Hong Kong
Leapfrog Kindergarten is based at the heart of Sai Kung Country Park and makes the most out of its lush location. It is the only registered kindergarten in Hong Kong that has a Forest School Program in Early Years! Teaching is enriched through the Forest School Program and bilingual classes (English and Mandarin) and is based on the British Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. The kindergarten delivers its EYFS curriculum and Forest School program in a fun, creative, engaging way in their forest, playground, terrace garden, mud kitchens, and other stimulating outdoor areas.
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Forest School Sai Kung: Forest School In Sai Kung, Hong Kong
Forest House International Waldorf School will follow the Waldorf curriculum and is an extension of the oh-so-popular preschool, Garden House Kindergarten in Clearwater Bay. The school focused on outdoor learning with kids taking regular adventures outside - farming, hiking, creating things from nature, and more.
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Discovery Bay International School (DBIS): Forest School In Discovery Bay *Lantau, Hong Kong
Explore the garden (made from typhoon-salvaged wood and other eco-finds), build a fairy house, or make a treasure hunt...exploring outside is key here. Discovery Bay International School (DBIS), adopted the Forest School program at its Early Years campus in September 2016.
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Japanese International School: Outdoor Education Curriculum In Tai Po, Hong Kong
JIS offers a robust outdoor education program that complements classroom learning, allowing students to understand global issues and their role in making a positive impact. With a strong connection to the United Nations Global Goals, students engage in outdoor activities in the forests and beaches of Hong Kong, fostering a love for nature and contributing to their social skills, physical development, and mental well-being. Through inquiry-based learning and exploration, children develop a deep connection with the natural world, fostering a sense of belonging and positive environmental attitudes. Outdoor learning promotes creativity, problem-solving, independence, confidence, and numerous other essential skills for our children's holistic development.
Lastly, if your child attends a school that does not offer the Forest School concept, there are still ways to enjoy this experience. A break from wooden puzzles, electronic devices and pretend toys, and into the forest and water for some play. Below is a nature-focused program offering camps and after-school fun in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Forest Adventures:
The HK Forest Adventures, (formally known as the HK Forest Kindergarten) specializes in taking toddlers and young children, ages 1.5 - 6 years old into the Forest to play. It is an all-weather activities company, meaning they mostly play outside regardless of the elements, if it's hot, they play in the water! If it rains, they play in the mud and the puddles. The programs are child-led and not curriculum-driven.
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The Backyard Gang: After-School Outdoor Education Provider For Young Kids And Toddlers
From beach days out and family hikes to riding bikes, flying kites, and pier fishing, The Backyard Gang creates those backyard experiences from many a childhood gone by in fast-paced Hong Kong.
Ark Eden: Outdoor Camps And Activities For Kids In Lantau
Ark Eden is a forest school located on Lantau Island, Hong Kong, and is a registered charity. They offer engaging camps for children aged 5 to 11, set in a beautiful forested valley garden. At Ark Eden, children learn the values of compassionate living and develop problem-solving skills through imaginative play and reconnecting with nature. The camps also provide opportunities for children to learn practical skills such as cooking, fire-making, woodworking, and more.
Click here for more information.
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