Man diagnosed with ADHD as adult starts forest school

Craig Johnson opened the Wild Kids Forest School in 2024

A teacher who was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult has opened a forest school to help some neurodivergent children who feel "overwhelmed" in mainstream education.

Craig Johnson, 39, launched Wild Kids Forest School in Stroud in 2024 and has 60 children attending sessions, most of which have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Parents and schools can refer children as part of home-schooling or alternative provision.

Mr Johnson said he has a "passion" for helping children with ADHD because he believes there is not enough targeted support.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by difficulties with concentration, energy levels, impulsiveness, or by a person's ability to manage their time.

Mr Johnson said: "Kids with ADHD, more often than not, especially without a diagnosis, they get just labelled as a naughty kid. That becomes their identity.

"Since getting diagnosed, I understand that now, I wasn't a bad kid. I just had impulse control difficulties, and I felt emotions really strongly because I had ADHD."

Becki Lucas' son, who was diagnosed with ADHD a year ago, is home-schooled after a difficult reception year at primary school.

"He was overwhelmed with having to conform every day," she said. "Now he's just happy being outside with others and active."

She added: "I now see a difference in his willingness to try different things and it's reflected in all his learning [at home]."

Sarah has also noticed a positive difference in her son Cameron, who has a dual diagnosis of ADHD and autism, since he started attending the forest school.

"It's amazing to see the difference [in him] after he's been to forest school - he's regulated and calm. After [mainstream] school he's wired," she said.

Sarah home-schools her son Cameron and takes him to the forest school

Forest school sessions can include whittling sticks, making fires and playing. Mr Johnson said children can develop literary and maths skills while doing these activities.

Mr Johnson, who has 20 years of experience working in education, youth support and care, said he tries to introduce concepts that appear more naturally in the world.

"The other day I was talking about right angles when we were sharpening knives. It applies to what they're interested in," he added.

One afterschool session is funded by Stroud Town Council.

Helen Bojaniwska, town clerk of the council, said they were "delighted" to support the school.

"We recognise how important is it for children to be able to play and learn outside in a safe and supported environment," she said.

A spokesperson from the Department of Education said the current government "inherited a SEND system on its knees" with thousands struggling for support.

"We're determined to put that right and deliver a better system that supports children and families at every stage," they said.

"We have already carried out over 100 listening sessions with families, and Minister Gould will be leading the engagement with more parents to make sure we deliver better outcomes for every child through the Schools White Paper as part of our Plan for Change."

The spokesperson added they have already made progress with their plans - including through improved training for teachers and £740 million to create more specialist places.