Horshna: Beirut’s Only Forest School Is Breaking Down the Classroom Walls

Horshna is Beirut’s one and only forest school. A school without walls, a classroom without desks—this natural environment fosters learning rooted in child-like wonder and curiosity. It’s a fresh take on education, one that embraces the outdoors and challenges traditional norms.

Forest School Origins

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Horshna was born out of a collective desire for a more meaningful approach to education. A group of educators and highly engaged parents began exploring alternative philosophies, eventually discovering the concept and ethos of forest schools.

Their research led them to Yasmine Eid Sabbagh, founder of Ses Milanes Forest School in Spain. In 2018, Horshna’s founder and lead educator, Dahna Abourahme, volunteered at Ses Milanes. Inspired by the experience, she launched the forest program later that same year.

In 2019, Horshna kicked off its Sunday Forest Program at Horsh Beirut. On October 1st, 2019, the school officially began its first full year.

A Constructivist, Child-Led Approach

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Horshna took on a child-led constructivist approach, where learning became an active process. Children’s engagement with the environment around them, intertwined with their child-like curiosity, leads to a naturalistic understanding and representation of the world around them, guided and supported by their educators.

Horshna adopted a mixed age community of children ranging from ages 2-6. Their high adult-to-child ratio of 1:5 ensures that each child is under supervision.

Learning in Nature: The Logistics

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Horshna operates in several locations including Horsh Beirut, Baabda Forest, and various winter-friendly indoor spaces like Sunflower Theater, Mansion, and Majal Studio.

To adapt to outdoor learning, Horshna equips its sites with thoughtful amenities—portable potties, eco-friendly waste disposal, and rain gear. For naps, children rest in hammocks strung between trees after lunch.

School Integration

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Horshna prepares its little learners for a smooth transition into more traditional classrooms. This includes developing essential skills, maintaining open communication with prospective schools, and discussing feelings and expectations with the children themselves.

Their graduates have gone on to attend schools like Ahliah, Collège Protestant, Montessori Beirut, and the Lebanese Montessori School in Dawhet El Hoss.

The idea of a forest school may seem unusual at first—but its nature-focused, curiosity-driven philosophy speaks to those who value hands-on learning, environmental awareness, and a deep sense of wonder.

Feeling nostalgic? Revisit your own classroom days with these 18 Amazing School Memories From Our Lebanese Childhood.