Langley Forest School Society

Langley Forest School Society is a registered Canadian nonprofit organisation that operates as a charity. The organisation is governed by a Board of Directors, many of whom are parents of current students and alumni.

Background and History

Langley Forest School was founded in 1985 as a parent-participation preschool in Fort Langley, British Columbia. Initially, it operated as a traditional preschool before transitioning to a forest-based approach in 2014. This shift marked a significant change in the school's educational model, focusing on outdoor learning and environmental education. By 2015, the school had established its base camp at Williams Park in North Langley. In 2020, it expanded to a second location at South Langley Regional Park.

Educational Philosophy

Langley Forest School follows a Forest Canada pedagogy, emphasizing a play-based, place-based approach that encourages supported risky play. The curriculum is designed to be responsive to the emergent needs of children, fostering a child-led environment that enhances learning through a deep connection with nature. The school's mission is to support children's growth in self-esteem, leadership, and kindergarten readiness, while promoting values such as community, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.

Operations and Impact

As the first forest school in the Fraser Valley, Langley Forest School Society provides an alternative educational option for families. It employs licensed early childhood educators and Outdoor Experience Days leaders to deliver its programs. The school operates as an extension of the home, aiming to prepare children for life socially, physically, emotionally, and intellectually through a holistic approach to education.

Governance and Structure

The organisation is structured with a Board of Directors that oversees its operations and strategic direction. This structure ensures that the school remains committed to its mission and continues to evolve in response to the needs of its community and environment.

Programs and Activities

Langley Forest School Society offers a range of programs designed for preschool-aged children, focusing on environmental stewardship and outdoor education. These programs aim to build a lifelong relationship between learners and the natural world, promoting holistic development and a sense of community among participants.

[1] https://www.langleyforestschool.com/about-us [2] https://www.langleyforestschool.com [3] https://www.cbinsights.com/company/langley-forest-school [4] https://www.langley.bham.sch.uk/web/forest_school/499801 [5] https://forestschoolassociation.org/what-is-forest-school/