Embracing Nature: the Australian Forest School Association’s Guiding Principles in Action
Birdwings Forest School is a founding member of the Australian Forest School Association (AFSA) committee. As a pioneering nature immersion enterprise we have been promoting nature-based practices for nearly a decade.
We helped to form this exciting national organisation so that we, as a professional community, can support the growth of quality nature immersion practice in Australia. As an AFSA approved provider, Birdwings offers nature immersion programs and nature therapy practices for children, families, and adults eager to connect deeply with the natural world.
In addition to facilitating these programs, Birdwings also provides invaluable training for Australian educators and mentors focused on enhancing nature connection practices. Here’s how Birdwings aligns with the six Guiding Principles of AFSA, enriching the lives of all participants.
1. Regular Nature Immersion
Birdwings offers regular opportunities for individuals to immerse themselves in nature, helping to develop a sustained bond with the environment and an ecological identity. Participants engage with the natural world in meaningful ways, through nature play, bush walks, exploring natural waterways, and through Ecological Storytelling, thereby fostering physical and emotional resilience, and a sense of belonging to the environment.
2. Connection to Country
At Birdwings, respect for the land and its cultural significance is paramount. Programs are woven through with gained indigenous knowledge and practices, introducing participants to the wisdom and practices unique to Kombumerri Country and fostering a deeper appreciation and respect for its cultural heritage. As white Australians, we are aware that we will always be learning about culture and commit to this journey of healing, reflection and respect.
3. Free Play and Natural Learning
Emphasizing free play, Birdwings provides for participants of all ages to explore and learn at their own pace in a natural setting. This approach encourages creativity, problem-solving, and personal growth through unstructured, spontaneous and adventurous play. Our days do move to a predictable rhythm, gently flowing between unstructured play and group/community experiences, and responding to seasonal changes in the environment.
4. Inclusivity and Accessibility
At Birdwings we strive to create a welcoming environment where every participant, regardless of background, identity or ability, can enjoy and benefit from connecting with nature. As a private business, we are aware of the financial limitations that come with charging for events and programs, however these are essential costs for our business to operate, and we do constantly look for grants, benefactors and opportunities where we can to keep costs at a minimum for our participants.
5. Mentoring Practices
In Birdwings programs, facilitators act more as mentors than traditional instructors. They support and nurture curiosity, confidence, skills for independence and personal learning through observation and subtle guidance, which helps in building trust and empowering participants to explore their natural surroundings.
6. Sustainable Practice
Sustainability is deeply ingrained in all Birdwings activities and programs. Participants learn about environmental conservation through practical, hands-on experiences that highlight the importance of sustainable living and the impact of human actions on the environment. We offer regular seasonal events for our community to engage in environmental projects such as ongoing creek restoration, planting for koala habitat and the Richmond Birdwing Butterfly project.
The Australian Forest School Association aims to represent nature-based practitioners as a community hub where the principles of the Australian Forest School Association are actively practiced and promoted. Through its commitment to these guiding principles, Birdwings not only educates but also inspires a broader audience, fostering a generation that is environmentally aware and deeply connected to nature. We renew our commitment to nature, culture and play every single day at the end of our Acknowledgement of Country, where we cry “Numala Chagun, Numala Nabei!” (Embrace Country, Embrace Play!)
We highly recommend that you become a member of the Australian Forest School Association if you are operating a nature-based program. Membership comes with benefits, and approved providers must demonstrate how they meet the Guiding Principles, so you can be assured that all approved providers are offering quality programs for children, culture and the environment across Australia. To find out more, visit the AFSA website: https://australianforestschoolassociation.org/
