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List of events

Upcoming events

  • Forest School Leader Award

    • March 17, 2010
    • September 10, 2010
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone Nature Kindergarten, Fowlis Wester, Perth and Kinross, Scotland
    • 6
    Register
    Our Forest School Scotland courses are Open College Network (OCN) accredited qualifications and are aimed at qualified teachers and early years practitioners.

    This course involves a 5-day taught training unit delivered on consecutive days in late Autumn and a further two consecutive days the following spring. In addition, learners are required to complete
    a self-directed assessment portfolio with both practical and written elements (over a 6 month period) and plan and deliver a programme of Forest School sessions appropriate to the age group. There is a requirement that all students hold or be in the process of acquiring
    a valid Paediatric First Aid for the Outdoors certificate (2-day ITC or equivalent) and be over 21 years of age.

    Dates: One three day course plus one two day course

    ALL 5 days have to be attended.

    Three day course: 17th, 18th, 19th March 2010
    Two day course: 9th, 10th September 2010

    Practical skills and session delivery assessment by arrangement

    Portfolio submission date: to be confirmed

    Location:
    Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone Nature Kindergarten,
    Fowlis Wester, Perth and Kinross, Scotland
    Other Information:

    Cost: £850 + Vat

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…
    this is Scotland!

    For more information or to book please contact Sabine at Mindstretchers

    01764 664409 or e-mail: sabine@mindstretchers.co.uk

    Forest school leader 3 mar and sep 2010.pdf
    Show details

  • Talking and Thinking Floorbooks and Talking Tubs : level 2

    • September 08, 2010
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Glasgow
    Register

    Talking and Thinking Floorbooks

    and Talking Tubs

    Level 2

    Objectives:
    • To explore the quality features of a Talking and Thinking Floorbook
    • To look at progression in thinking
    • To discuss strategies that encourage inclusivity
    • To examine the relevance of PLOD within the learning journey

    This course will build on the Mindstretchers approach detailed in the book ‘Talking and Thinking Floorbooks’ by Claire Warden and explored on the level 1 course. Course participants are expected to have a working knowledge of Talking and Thinking Floorbooks and bring
    examples of these.

    Other Information:

    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops, lunch and coffee.

    Certificates will be presented

    talkingandthinkingfloorbooks.pdf
    Show details

  • Nature Kindergarten: Simple spaces, complex learning ( 3-5 Year olds )

    • September 16, 2010
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone Nature Kindergarten, Fowlis Wester, Perthshire, PH7 3NL, Scotland
    Register

    Nature Kindergarten

    Simple spaces, complex learning (3-5year olds)

    OCN Level 3

    The Open College Network (OCN) accredited
    Nature Kindergarten unit centres around an ethos of creating and practising in natural play environments, both indoors and outside, on a daily basis with children aged 3 - 5 years

    The course has been creatively designed to take practitioners on a learning journey as these naturalistic spaces change through the seasons. Candidates will each complete an assessment portfolio during the year.

    Dates: One two day course plus three one day courses.

    ALL 5 days have to be attended.
    Two day course: 16th September, 17th September 2010
    One day courses: 21st January, 1st April, 17th June 2011
    Portfolio submission date: To be agreed

    Refreshments and lunch will be provided during each training day.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…this is Scotland!

    naturekindergarten ocn lvl 3
    Show details

  • Consulting Children in the Planning Process

    • September 21, 2010
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Copthorne Tara Hotel,Scarsdale Place,Kensington, London, W8 5SR
    Register

    Consulting Children in the Planning Process

    incl. Talking and Thinking Floorbooks

    Level 1

    CPD Training for Nursery and Early Years Practitioners and Mangers.

    Objectives:

    • To explore the way that children can participate in the planning
    process through Talking Tubs
    • To look at current models of Talking and Thinking Floorbooks
    • To discuss strategies that encourage children to document learning
    across the globe
    • To examine strategies including ‘Every Child a Talker’ and ‘Enabling Environments for Communication’

    This course will build on the Mindstretchers approach detailed in the book ‘Talking and
    Thinking Floorbooks’ by Claire Warden

    Other Information:
    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops, lunch and coffee.
    Certificates will be presented.

    consulting children.pdf

    Show details

  • Talking and Thinking Floorbooks and Talking Tubs : level 2

    • September 28, 2010
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Perth
    Register

    Talking and Thinking Floorbooks

    and Talking Tubs

    Level 2

    Objectives:
    • To explore the quality features of a Talking and Thinking Floorbook
    • To look at progression in thinking
    • To discuss strategies that encourage inclusivity
    • To examine the relevance of PLOD within the learning journey

    This course will build on the Mindstretchers approach detailed in the book ‘Talking and Thinking Floorbooks’ by Claire Warden and explored on the level 1 course. Course participants are expected to have a working knowledge of Talking and Thinking Floorbooks and bring
    examples of these.

    Other Information:

    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops, lunch and coffee.

    Certificates will be presented

    talking and thinking floorbooks.pdf
    Show details

  • Nurture Through Nature : Naturalistic play spaces inside and out (0-3 Year olds)

    • October 26, 2010
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone Nature Kindergarten, Fowlis Wester, Perthshire, PH7 3NL, Scotland
    Register

    Nurture Through Nature

    Naturalistic play spaces inside and out (0-3 year olds)

    OCN Level 3

    The Open College Network (OCN) accredited Nurture Through Nature unit centres around an ethos of creating and practising in natural play environments, both indoors and outside, full of awe and wonder. This course explores ways of working with children ages 0 - 3 years and their families.

    The course has been creatively designed to take
    practitioners on a learning journey as these naturalistic spaces change through the seasons. Candidates will each complete an assessment portfolio during the year.

    Dates: One two day course plus two one day courses.
    ALL 4 days have to be attended.
    Two day course: 26th and 27th October 2010
    One day courses: 28th January, 20th May 2011

    Portfolio submission date: To be agreed

    Refreshments and lunch will be provided during each training day

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…this is Scotland!

    nurture through nature
    Show details

  • Forest School Leader Award

    • October 28, 2010
    • October 30, 2010
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone Nature Kindergarten, Fowlis Wester, Perthshire, PH7 3NL
    Register

    Forest School

    Forest School Leader Award

    OCN Level 3

    Our Forest School Scotland courses are Open College Network (OCN) accredited qualifications and are aimed at qualified teachers and early years practitioners.

    This course involves a 5-day taught training unit delivered on consecutive days in late Autumn and a further two consecutive days the following spring. In addition, learners are required to complete a self-directed assessment portfolio with both practical and written
    elements (over a 6 month period) and plan and deliver a programme of Forest School sessions appropriate to the age group. There is a requirement that all students hold or be in the process of acquiring a valid Paediatric First Aid for the Outdoors certificate (2-day ITC or equivalent) and be over 21 years of age.

    Dates: One three day course plus one two day course

    ALL 5 days have to be attended.

    Three day course: 28th, 29th, 30th October 2010
    Two day course: 28th, 29th April 2011
    Practical skills and session delivery assessment by arrangement
    Portfolio submission date: To be agreed

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing… this is Scotland!

    forestschoolleader
    Show details

  • Forest School Assistant Practitioners Award

    • October 28, 2010
    • October 30, 2010
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone Nature Kindergarten, Fowlis Wester, Perthshire, PH7 3NL
    Register

    Forest School

    Forest School Assistant Practitioners Award

    OCN Level 2

    Our Forest School Scotland courses are Open College Network (OCN) accredited qualifications and are aimed at early years practitioners.

    This course comprises a 3-day taught unit, delivered on consecutive days in late Autumn. In addition, learners are required to complete a self-directed assessment portfolio with both practical and written elements (over a 3 month period). The Level 2 course completes two-thirds of the Level 3 Leader Award and, upon assessment of the
    Level 2 portfolio, can be used as accredited prior learning on a future Forest School Leader’s course. There is a requirement that all students hold or be in the process of acquiring a valid Paediatric First Aid for the Outdoors certificate (2-day ITC or equivalent).

    Dates: One three day course.

    ALL three days have to be attended.
    28th, 29th, 30th October 2010
    Assessment date to be confirmed.
    Portfolio submission date: To be agreed

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…this is Scotland!

    Forest school assistant

    Show details

  • Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces

    • October 29, 2010
    • 11:00 AM - 02:30 PM
    • Meeting room, Abruthven Mill, Auchterarder
    Register

    Nature Kindergartens

    Creating motivational spaces

    Objectives:
    • To explore child created naturalistic learning spaces
    • To visit Auchlone Nature Kindergarten
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments

    Available dates:
    Single half day course with site visits to Auchlone Nature Kindergarten


    Other Information:
    Cost of £59 (excl VAT) includes training, site visit and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…
    this is Scotland!

    please note. This course is subject to a minimum attendance of 6 people.

    Show details

  • Consulting Children in the Planning Process

    • November 02, 2010
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Durham
    Register

    Consulting Children in the Planning Process

    incl. Talking and Thinking Floorbooks

    Level 1

    Objectives:

    • To explore the way that children can participate in the planning
    process through Talking Tubs
    • To look at current models of Talking and Thinking Floorbooks
    • To discuss strategies that encourage children to document learning
    across the globe
    • To examine strategies including ‘Every Child a Talker’ and ‘Enabling Environments for Communication’

    This course will build on the Mindstretchers approach detailed in the book ‘Talking and
    Thinking Floorbooks’ by Claire Warden

    Other Information:
    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops, lunch and coffee.
    Certificates will be presented.

    consulting children.pdf
    Show details

  • Linked Courses: Risk it!, Natural Playscapes, Nature Kindergartens

    • November 04, 2010
    • 12:30 PM
    • November 05, 2010
    • 03:00 PM
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone, Fowlis wester
    Register
    Complementary courses are linked to
    allow practitioners to visit Scotland over two days.

    Risk It!

    An exploration of the benefits of risk in learning.

    Objectives:
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments that are based
    on exploration and risk
    • To visit The Centre for Educational Excellence landscape site to focus on risk
    benefit assessment



    Natural Playscapes

    The essence of childhood?

    Objectives:
    • To explore international trends in Naturalistic Early Education
    • To visit The Centre for Educational Excellence and exploring
    ‘Children as Designers’


    Nature Kindergartens

    Creating motivational spaces

    Objectives:
    • To explore child created naturalistic learning spaces
    • To visit Auchlone Nature Kindergarten
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments

    Cost of £165 (excl VAT) includes training, site visit and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…this is Scotland!

    risk it
    Show details

  • Bambini: Exploring the needs of and three year olds

    • November 09, 2010
    • 09:30 AM - 03:30 PM
    • Crieff Hydro Hotel, Perthshire, Scotland
    Register

    Bambini

    Exploring the needs of two and

    three year olds

    Speaker led International conference

    This conference is designed to raise the awareness of the needs of two and three year olds in a variety of settings both indoors and outdoors. As with all Mindstretchers conferences there will be a blend of research, case studies and motivational speakers.


    Led by Claire Warden and invited speakers. There will be displays of innovative high quality practice from around the world. Groups are invited to submit an outline if they wish to display.

    Accommodation:
    Can be arranged at a special price should this be required.

    bambini.pdf
    Show details

  • Motivational Maths: Active Numeracy

    • November 11, 2010
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Beardmore Hotel and Conference Centre, Beardmore St, Clydebank, Dunbartonshire G81 4SA
    Register

    Motivational Maths

    Active Numeracy

    Objectives:
    • To create exciting mathematical opportunities for children in the
    early years (3 - 7 years)
    • To motivate practitioners to create active contexts for mathematics
    • To raise the profile of sensorial experiences in the early years
    • To provide a range of active learning techniques and resource ideas in the new landscaped outdoor area.

    Other Information:
    Cost £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops and lunch.
    Certificates will be presented.

    Invoice: You will be invoiced prior to the training by Mindstretchers Ltd.  Please advise of any purchase order numbers as soon as possible. 

    Cancellation Policy:  If cancelling within six weeks of the event date then full charges will apply.

     

    motivational maths

    Show details

  • Forest Education A Mindstretchers Certificated Course

    • November 15, 2010
    • November 18, 2010
    • Cathedral Paddock, Pukepoto Properties, 592 Ngunguru Rd, R D 3, Whangarei.
    • 25
    Register

    Forest Education

    A Mindstretchers Certificated Course

    Presented by Claire Warden and based on the Scottish and Scandinavian model of the outdoor Nature Kindergartens 

    Objectives:
    -  to explore child created naturalistic spaces
    -   to share ideas on creating a rich learning              environment
    -   to gain the skills to enable children to have real experiences including the use of real tools

    Programme: 

    Mon 15th  3pm - arrival, meet & greet, set up tents etc, course outlined

    Tues 16th  - working with Claire Warden

    Wed 17th  - working with Claire Warden

    Thurs 18th - Maori component of cultural perspective of the bus.    From lunchtime until 10pm ish participants will travel by bus to the beach for the afternoon session.  This is to be followed by BarBQ, debrief and graduation by the ocean.

    What to Bring: 
    tent, sleeping bag, sturdy shoes, clothes including warm clothes for the night, raingear, camera, enthusiasm, musical instrument, strong torch, swimming gear

    We provide:

    showers, breakfast, lunch, tea, fruit, drinking water  

    Cost: 
    $650 plus GST   (Limited to 25 participants)

              

                Contact:  mail@wildwoodsevents.co.nz
    Show details

  • Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces

    • November 19, 2010
    • 12:30 PM - 03:00 PM
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone, Fowlis wester
    Register

    Nature Kindergartens

    Creating motivational spaces

    Objectives:
    • To explore child created naturalistic learning spaces
    • To visit Auchlone Nature Kindergarten
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments

    Available dates:
    Single half day course with site visits to Auchlone Nature Kindergarten


    Other Information:
    Cost of £59 (excl VAT) includes training, site visit and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…
    this is Scotland!


    nature kindergartens.pdf
    Show details

  • Outdoor Science and Literacy: Science Stories

    • November 23, 2010
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Centre for Educational Excellence, Fowlis Wester, Perthshire, PH7 3NL
    Register

    Outdoor Science and Literacy

    Science Stories

    An exploration of Frameworks of Understanding

    Objectives:
    • To explore the place of the environment in the exploration of science and literacy
    • To motivate practitioners to engage in scientific enquiry and literacy outdoors

    Other Information:
    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…this is Scotland!

    outdoorscienceandliteracy.pdf
    Show details

  • Consulting Children in the Planning Process

    • January 25, 2011
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Manchester
    Register

    Consulting Children in the Planning Process

    incl. Talking and Thinking Floorbooks

    Level 1

    Objectives:

    • To explore the way that children can participate in the planning
    process through Talking Tubs
    • To look at current models of Talking and Thinking Floorbooks
    • To discuss strategies that encourage children to document learning
    across the globe
    • To examine strategies including ‘Every Child a Talker’ and ‘Enabling Environments for Communication’

    This course will build on the Mindstretchers approach detailed in the book ‘Talking and
    Thinking Floorbooks’ by Claire Warden

    Other Information:
    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops, lunch and coffee.
    Certificates will be presented.

    consulting children.pdf

    Show details

  • Consulting Children in the Planning Process

    • February 01, 2011
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Edinburgh
    Register

    Consulting Children in the Planning Process

    incl. Talking and Thinking Floorbooks

    Level 1

    Objectives:

    • To explore the way that children can participate in the planning
    process through Talking Tubs
    • To look at current models of Talking and Thinking Floorbooks
    • To discuss strategies that encourage children to document learning
    across the globe
    • To examine strategies including ‘Every Child a Talker’ and ‘Enabling Environments for Communication’

    This course will build on the Mindstretchers approach detailed in the book ‘Talking and
    Thinking Floorbooks’ by Claire Warden

    Other Information:
    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops, lunch and coffee.
    Certificates will be presented.

    consulting children.pdf

    Show details

  • Linked Courses: Risk it!, Natural Playscapes, Nature Kindergartens

    • February 10, 2011
    • 12:30 PM
    • February 11, 2011
    • 03:00 PM
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone, Fowlis wester
    Register
    Complementary courses are linked to
    allow practitioners to visit Scotland over two days.

    Risk It!

    An exploration of the benefits of risk in learning.

    Objectives:
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments that are based
    on exploration and risk
    • To visit The Centre for Educational Excellence landscape site to focus on risk
    benefit assessment



    Natural Playscapes

    The essence of childhood?

    Objectives:
    • To explore international trends in Naturalistic Early Education
    • To visit The Centre for Educational Excellence and exploring
    ‘Children as Designers’


    Nature Kindergartens

    Creating motivational spaces

    Objectives:
    • To explore child created naturalistic learning spaces
    • To visit Auchlone Nature Kindergarten
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments

    Cost of £165 (excl VAT) includes training, site visit and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…this is Scotland!



    riskit.pdf
    Show details

  • Study Visits: Norway

    • February 15, 2011
    • February 18, 2011
    • Norway
    Register

    Study Visits

    Norway

    Another new study tour for 2011, is a proposed visit to Norway, the home of “friluftsliv”( fresh air life), to
    explore nature kindergarten and the Norwegian
    pre-school curriculum.


    A range of tours, presentations and demonstrations by both Mindstretchers staff with input from experienced pedagogues and University lecturers will be included in the programme

    As with all our study visits, readings and academic papers will be provided to support the thinking and your reflection.

    Cost: £850 (excl vat) Includes accommodation and some meals.

    studyvisitnorway.pdf
    Show details

  • Linked Courses: Boys!, Construction and Technology, Nature Kindergartens

    • February 17, 2011
    • 12:30 PM
    • February 18, 2011
    • 03:00 PM
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone, Fowlis wester
    Register
    Complementary courses are linked to
    allow practitioners to visit Scotland over two days.

    Boys!

    Creating a positive learning environment for kinaesthetic learners

    Objectives:
    • To share ways to create positive learning environments that enable
    kinaesthetic children to thrive
    • To beome aware of research, learning styles and creating purposeful
    contexts for learning


    Construction and Technology

    Objectives:
    • To explore children’s logical and creative approaches to construction and
    technology
    • To develop strategies of problem solving and critical thinking

    Nature Kindergartens

    Creating motivational spaces

    Objectives:
    • To explore child created naturalistic learning spaces
    • To visit Auchlone Nature Kindergarten
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments


    Cost of £165 (excl VAT) includes training, site visit and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…this is Scotland!

    boys.pdf
    Show details

  • Study Visits: Norway

    • February 22, 2011
    • February 25, 2011
    • Scotland
    Register

    Study Visits

    Norway

    Another new study tour for 2011, is a proposed visit to Norway, the home of “friluftsliv”( fresh air life), to
    explore nature kindergarten and the Norwegianpre-school curriculum.

    A range of tours, presentations and demonstrations by both Mindstretchers staff with input from experienced pedagogues and University lecturers will be included in the programme

    As with all our study visits, readings and academic papers will be provided to support the thinking and your reflection.

    Cost: £850 (excl vat) Includes accommodation and some meals.

    studyvisitnorway.pdf
    Show details

  • Consulting With Children

    • March 03, 2011
    • March 04, 2011
    • Centre for Educational Excellence, Fowlis Wester, Perthshire, PH7 3NL, Scotland
    Register

    Consulting With Children

    OCN Level 3

    We are proud to have written this qualification in listening to children’s voices. This Open College Network (OCN) accredited Consulting with Children unit situates children’s thinking, needs and voices at the centre of professional practice.

    The syllabus will include mentoring methodology, learning
    progression and the application of communication strategies when consulting with children. Candidates will each complete an assessment portfolio during the year.

    Dates: One two day course
    Both days have to be attended.
    3rd and 4th March 2011
    Portfolio submission date: To be agreed

    Refreshments and lunch will be provided during each training day.

    consultingwithchildrenocn3.pdf
    Show details

  • Consulting with Children : OCN level 3

    • March 03, 2011
    • 09:00 AM
    • March 04, 2011
    • 03:00 PM
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone, Fowlis wester
    Register

    Consulting With Children

    OCN Level 3

    This Open College Network (OCN) accredited Consulting with Children unit situates children’s thinking, needs and voices at the centre of professional practice. It is designed for practitioners to gain a qualification in the methodology.

    The syllabus will include mentoring, access to the research hub, learning progression and the application of communication strategies when consulting with children. Candidates will each complete an assessment portfolio during the year.

    Other Information:

    Cost £450 (excl VAT)

    Refreshments and lunch will be provided during each training day.

    consultingwithchildrenocn3.pdf
    Show details

  • A Special Age and Stage : Working with 2-3 Year Olds

    • March 08, 2011
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Glasgow
    Register

    A Special Age and Stage

    Working with 2-3 Year Olds

    Indoors and outdoors

    Objectives:
    • To explore the research surrounding the needs of 2 and 3 year olds
    • To audit environments
    • To create a motivational continuum to provide high quality provision.

    Other Information:
    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.


    workingwith2-3.pdf
    Show details

  • Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces

    • March 11, 2011
    • 12:30 PM - 03:00 PM
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone, Fowlis wester
    Register

    Nature Kindergartens

    Creating motivational spaces

    Objectives:
    • To explore child created naturalistic learning spaces
    • To visit Auchlone Nature Kindergarten
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments

    Available dates:
    Single half day course with site visits to Auchlone Nature Kindergarten


    Other Information:
    Cost of £59 (excl VAT) includes training, site visit and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…
    this is Scotland!


    nature kindergartens.pdf
    Show details

  • Motivational Maths: Active Numeracy

    • March 15, 2011
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Rotherham
    Register

    Motivational Maths

    Active Numeracy

    Objectives:
    • To create exciting mathematical opportunities for children in the
    early years (3 - 7 years)
    • To motivate practitioners to create active contexts for mathematics
    • To raise the profile of sensorial experiences in the early years
    • To provide a range of active learning techniques and resource ideas in the new landscaped outdoor area.

    Other Information:
    Cost £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops and lunch.
    Certificates will be presented.

    motivational maths.pdf
    Show details

  • Study Visits: Denmark

    • March 22, 2011
    • March 25, 2011
    • Denmark
    Register

    Study Visits

    Denmark

    This study trip will visit Nature - orientated settings/
    Forest Kindergartens in Denmark.

    We have joined with a leading university in Denmark to explore the methodology and curriculum that lies behind the approach to education known as Nature Kindergarten / Forest Schools. Visits to a range of education settings plus talks, presentations and demonstrations by both Mindstretchers staff and University lecturers and
    other specialists will be included in the programme.

    Readings and academic papers will be provided to support the thinking and reflection.

    Costs: £850 (excl vat) Includes accommodation and some meals.

    studyvisitdenmark.pdf
    Show details

  • Outdoor Science and Literacy: Science Stories

    • March 23, 2011
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Edinburgh
    Register

    Outdoor Science and Literacy

    Science Stories

    An exploration of Frameworks of Understanding

    Objectives:
    • To explore the place of the environment in the exploration of science and literacy
    • To motivate practitioners to engage in scientific enquiry and literacy outdoors

    Other Information:
    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…this is Scotland!

    outdoorscienceandliteracy.pdf
    Show details

  • Consulting Children in the Planning Process

    • March 29, 2011
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Kent
    Register

    Consulting Children in the Planning Process

    incl. Talking and Thinking Floorbooks

    Level 1

    Objectives:

    • To explore the way that children can participate in the planning
    process through Talking Tubs
    • To look at current models of Talking and Thinking Floorbooks
    • To discuss strategies that encourage children to document learning
    across the globe
    • To examine strategies including ‘Every Child a Talker’ and ‘Enabling Environments for Communication’

    This course will build on the Mindstretchers approach detailed in the book ‘Talking and
    Thinking Floorbooks’ by Claire Warden

    Other Information:
    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops, lunch and coffee.
    Certificates will be presented.

    consulting children.pdf
    Show details

  • Talking and Thinking Floorbooks and Talking Tubs : level 2

    • March 30, 2011
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • London
    Register

    Talking and Thinking Floorbooks

    and Talking Tubs

    Level 2

    Objectives:
    • To explore the quality features of a Talking and Thinking Floorbook
    • To look at progression in thinking
    • To discuss strategies that encourage inclusivity
    • To examine the relevance of PLOD within the learning journey

    This course will build on the Mindstretchers approach detailed in the book ‘Talking and Thinking Floorbooks’ by Claire Warden and explored on the level 1 course. Course participants are expected to have a working knowledge of Talking and Thinking Floorbooks and bring
    examples of these.

    Other Information:

    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops, lunch and coffee.

    Certificates will be presented

    talkingandthinkingfloorbooks.pdf
    Show details

  • Linked Courses: Boys!, Construction and Technology, Nature Kindergartens

    • May 12, 2011
    • 12:30 PM
    • May 13, 2011
    • 03:00 PM
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone, Fowlis wester
    Register
    Complementary courses are linked to
    allow practitioners to visit Scotland over two days.

    Boys!

    Creating a positive learning environment for kinaesthetic learners

    Objectives:
    • To share ways to create positive learning environments that enable
    kinaesthetic children to thrive
    • To beome aware of research, learning styles and creating purposeful
    contexts for learning


    Construction and Technology

    Objectives:
    • To explore children’s logical and creative approaches to construction and
    technology
    • To develop strategies of problem solving and critical thinking

    Nature Kindergartens

    Creating motivational spaces

    Objectives:
    • To explore child created naturalistic learning spaces
    • To visit Auchlone Nature Kindergarten
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments


    Cost of £165 (excl VAT) includes training, site visit and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…this is Scotland!

    boys.pdf
    Show details

  • Study Visits: Finland

    • May 17, 2011
    • May 20, 2011
    • Finland
    Register

    Study Visits

    Finland

    New for this year, is a proposed visit to southern
    Finland to explore the “At Home in Nature” nurseries
    and Finnish pre-school curriculum.


    A range of tours, talks, presentations and demonstrations by both Mindstretchers staff with input from a local University will be included in the programme

    As with all our study visits, readings and academic papers will be provided to support the thinking and your reflection.


    Cost: £850 (excl vat) Includes accommodation and some meals.

    studyvisitfinland.pdf
    Show details

  • Naturalistic Indoor Spaces: Brining Nature Indoors

    • May 18, 2011
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Glasgow
    Register

    Naturalistic Indoor Spaces

    Bringing Nature Indoors

    Objectives:
    • To explore child created naturalistic indoor learning spaces in a variety of settings such as childminders, the home and the centre
    • To Create a continuum journal to evaluate and evidence changes in quality
    • To raise the quality of provision across all areas of the curriculum

    Other Information:

    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    naturalistic indoor spaces.pdf
    Show details

  • Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces

    • May 27, 2011
    • 12:30 PM - 03:00 PM
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone, Fowlis wester
    Register

    Nature Kindergartens

    Creating motivational spaces

    Objectives:
    • To explore child created naturalistic learning spaces
    • To visit Auchlone Nature Kindergarten
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments

    Available dates:
    Single half day course with site visits to Auchlone Nature Kindergarten


    Other Information:
    Cost of £59 (excl VAT) includes training, site visit and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…
    this is Scotland!

    nature kindergartens.pdf
    Show details

  • Boys and Men in Childcare

    • June 08, 2011
    • 09:30 AM
    • June 10, 2011
    • 03:30 PM
    • Crieff Hydro Hotel, Crieff, perthshire, Scotland
    Register

    Annual International Conference

    Boys and Men in Childcare

    International conference with motivational speakers on day 1 and research seminars, case studies and site visits on day 2. This conference is designed to raise the awareness of the issues that face men and boys in a variety of care and educational environments indoors and outdoors. An investigation into the research linked to male attainment. A celebration of approaches effective in raising emotional wellbeing and involvement of males.

    Led by Claire Warden and invited speakers. There will be
    displays of innovative high quality practice from around the
    world. Groups are invited to submit and outline if they wish to
    have the opportunity to share their work.

    Designed to link to our Scotland Study Visit

    Accommodation:
    Can be arranged at a special price should this be required.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…
    this is Scotland!

    menandboys.pdf
    Show details

  • Study Visits: Scotland

    • June 13, 2011
    • June 15, 2011
    • Scotland
    Register

    Study Visits

    Scotland

    To complement our ever expanding range of study visits abroad, we have decided to offer a Study Visit to Scotland.


    There is a huge variety of good practice to show you and the visit will include tours of the Mindstretchers Nature Kindergartens plus a series of presentations at our Centre for Educational Excellence in rural Perthshire. We will be visiting a range of early education settings in Scotland (there’ll be some sightseeing and shopping time too!)

    As with all our study visits, readings and academic papers will be provided to support the thinking and your reflection.

    Costs: £650 (excl vat) Includes accommodation and some meals.

    studyvisitscotland.pdf
    Show details

  • Linked Courses: Risk it!, Natural Playscapes, Nature Kindergartens

    • June 23, 2011
    • 12:30 PM
    • June 24, 2011
    • 03:00 PM
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone, Fowlis wester
    Register
    Complementary courses are linked to
    allow practitioners to visit Scotland over two days.

    Risk It!

    An exploration of the benefits of risk in learning.

    Objectives:
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments that are based
    on exploration and risk
    • To visit The Centre for Educational Excellence landscape site to focus on risk
    benefit assessment



    Natural Playscapes

    The essence of childhood?

    Objectives:
    • To explore international trends in Naturalistic Early Education
    • To visit The Centre for Educational Excellence and exploring
    ‘Children as Designers’


    Nature Kindergartens

    Creating motivational spaces

    Objectives:
    • To explore child created naturalistic learning spaces
    • To visit Auchlone Nature Kindergarten
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments

    Cost of £165 (excl VAT) includes training, site visit and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…this is Scotland!

    riskit.pdf
    Show details

  • Consulting Children in the Planning Process

    • June 28, 2011
    • 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
    • Birmingham
    Register

    Consulting Children in the Planning Process

    incl. Talking and Thinking Floorbooks

    Level 1

    Objectives:

    • To explore the way that children can participate in the planning
    process through Talking Tubs
    • To look at current models of Talking and Thinking Floorbooks
    • To discuss strategies that encourage children to document learning
    across the globe
    • To examine strategies including ‘Every Child a Talker’ and ‘Enabling Environments for Communication’

    This course will build on the Mindstretchers approach detailed in the book ‘Talking and
    Thinking Floorbooks’ by Claire Warden

    Other Information:
    Cost of £110 (excl VAT) includes training, workshops, lunch and coffee.
    Certificates will be presented.

    consulting children.pdf
    Show details

  • Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces

    • July 01, 2011
    • 12:30 PM - 03:00 PM
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone, Fowlis wester
    Register

    Nature Kindergartens

    Creating motivational spaces

    Objectives:
    • To explore child created naturalistic learning spaces
    • To visit Auchlone Nature Kindergarten
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments

    Available dates:
    Single half day course with site visits to Auchlone Nature Kindergarten


    Other Information:
    Cost of £59 (excl VAT) includes training, site visit and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…
    this is Scotland!

    nature kindergartens.pdf
    Show details

  • Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces

    • August 13, 2011
    • 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
    • Centre for Educational Excellence and Auchlone, Fowlis wester
    Register

    Nature Kindergartens

    Creating motivational spaces

    Objectives:
    • To explore child created naturalistic learning spaces
    • To visit Auchlone Nature Kindergarten
    • To share ideas of ways to create rich learning environments

    Available dates:
    Single half day course with site visits to Auchlone Nature Kindergarten


    Other Information:
    Cost of £59 (excl VAT) includes training, site visit and lunch.

    Certificates will be presented.

    Please bring appropriate outdoor clothing…
    this is Scotland!

    nature kindergartens.pdf
    Show details

Past events

August 27, 2010 Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces
July 02, 2010 Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces
June 18, 2010 Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces
June 08, 2010 The Right to be Heard: Weaving children’s voices into planning
May 07, 2010 Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces
April 23, 2010 Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces
April 19, 2010 Study Visits Italy
March 04, 2010 Link Courses
March 02, 2010 Consulting Children in the Planning Process incl. Talking and Thinking Floorbooks
February 22, 2010 Study Visits Denmark
February 19, 2010 Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces
February 02, 2010 Motivational Maths
January 15, 2010 Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces
January 12, 2010 Consulting Children in the Planning Process incl. Talking and Thinking Floorbooks
November 10, 2009 Consulting Children in the Planning Process incl. Talking and Thinking Floorbooks
November 06, 2009 Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces
November 06, 2009 Natural Playscapes: The essence of childhood?
November 05, 2009 Risk It!
November 02, 2009 Motivational Maths
October 27, 2009 Consulting Children in the Planning Process incl. Talking and Thinking Floorbooks
September 16, 2009 Consulting Children in the Planning Process incl. Talking and Thinking Floorbooks
September 11, 2009 Nature Kindergartens : Creating motivational spaces
September 08, 2009 A Natural Curriculum for Excellence: An exploration of the benefits of risk in learning