Welcome to New Leaf Nature & Wellbeing CIC
Schools and Education
Incorporating nature into the school curriculum not only supports educational outcomes but also fosters a generation of healthier, happier, and more well-rounded individuals.
Studies have shown that exposure to natural environments significantly enhances mental and physical health, academic performance, and social skills. In the UK, research has consistently highlighted the benefits of outdoor learning and play.
Benefits for Children and Young Adults
Improved Mental Health:
Nature experiences reduce stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms. A study by Natural England found that 90% of children reported feeling happier and healthier after spending time in nature.
Enhanced Academic Performance:
Exposure to natural environments can boost cognitive function and concentration. The University of Exeter found that children who spent more time outdoors performed better academically, particularly in subjects like science and mathematics.
Better Physical Health:
Outdoor activities promote physical fitness and combat sedentary lifestyles, reducing the risk of obesity and associated health problems. Public Health England has emphasised the role of nature in promoting physical activity among children.
Social and Emotional Development:
Nature play encourages creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. A study by the RSPB showed that children who regularly engage with nature have better social interactions and develop essential life skills like empathy and resilience .
References
Natural England's Study on Children and Nature: Natural England
University of Exeter Research on Academic Performance: University of Exeter Public Health England's Advocacy for Physical Activity:
Public Health England RSPB Report on Social and Emotional Benefits: RSPB
By providing facilities in nature for parents and children to participate in home schooling we are able to provide a safe, healthy environment for parents and children to enjoy quality time together and enhance their education potential.
Nature as a part of Home Schooling
Home schooling, or elective home education (EHE), is an increasingly popular choice for parents in the United Kingdom. It offers an alternative to traditional school settings, allowing parents to tailor education to their child's needs and preferences.
Home schooling has seen a notable rise in the UK, particularly in recent years. Several factors contribute to this increase, including dissatisfaction with the traditional school system, concerns about bullying, special educational needs, and the desire for a more flexible or personalised education approach.
According to data from the Association of Directors of Children’s Services (ADCS), the number of children being home schooled in England rose significantly from approximately 45,500 in 2015 to an estimated 75,668 in 2021. This represents a growth of over 66% in six years.
As at census date in autumn 2023, an estimated 92,000 children were in elective home education (EHE). This includes adjustments made for non-response and is based on a figure of 87,700 reported by 95% of local authorities. This is an increase from an estimated 80,900 in the previous autumn term.
During the 2022/23 academic year, an estimated 126,100 children were EHE at any point. This includes adjustments made for non-response and is based on a figure of 119,200 reported by 94% of local authorities. This is an increase from an estimated 116,300 in 2021/22. Where a child was EHE more than once during the year, they are only recorded once.
Parents choose home schooling for various reasons, including:
Special Educational Needs (SEN): Many parents feel that their child's SEN are better addressed in a home environment.
Bullying: Concerns about bullying and the associated negative impact on mental health drive some parents to home educate.
Dissatisfaction with School System: Issues such as large class sizes, teaching methods, and school policies can lead parents to seek alternative education options.
Flexibility: Home schooling offers a flexible schedule, allowing families to travel or follow different educational philosophies.
While home schooling can offer many benefits, it also comes with challenges:
Resource Intensity: Parents must invest significant time and resources into planning and delivering education.
Environment – A natural disadvantage of homeschooling is that you cannot truly separate home from school. Attempting to maintain structure and balance requires intense self-discipline, focus and planning. It is extremely easy for everyday distractions to get in the way of schoolwork.
Socialising: Ensuring children have opportunities to socialise with peers is a common concern.
Extra-Curricular Activities: Homeschooled students may have fewer opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities such as sports teams, clubs, or school events. Access to specialised facilities, equipment, and resources traditional schools provide may also be limited.
Support and Resources
There are numerous resources and support networks available for home schooling families in the UK:
Home Education Advisory Service (HEAS): Provides information, support, and resources for home educating families.
Education Otherwise: A UK charity offering support and information for home educators.
Local Groups: Many regions have local home education groups where families can meet, share resources, and organise group activities.
Statistics and Research
For more detailed statistics and research on home schooling in the UK, you can refer to the following sources:
Department for Education: Elective Home Education
Association of Directors of Children’s Services (ADCS): Elective Home Education Survey 2021 Education Otherwise: Home Education Information
References
Association of Directors of Children’s Services (ADCS). "Elective Home Education Survey 2021."
Department for Education. "Elective Home Education."
Education Act 1996. "Section 7." Link
Contact Us
New Leaf Farm and Forest, Back Lane,
Eaton CW12 2NG
