Course Programme

 

The 6-day initial training

The initial element of the training comprises a combination of practical and theory. Learners will need to come prepared for both indoor and outdoor learning every day and in all weathers. Each day will commence at 9am and finish at approximately 5pm. 

Interim tasks

Learners will need to work on some introductory assignments, practice their practical skills and consider where and when they will run their ‘introduction to Forest School’ programme and who with. Before Practical Skills Assessment Days

The 4-day Practical Skills Assessment Days

Trainees will be assessed on their practical and tool skills, as well as their leadership and group-working skills. This element of the course will include a personal tutorial session and trainees will also complete their Level 2 Outdoor Food Safety qualification.

Portfolio Workshop 

Three one-day workshop (which trainees can attend in person or virtually) will be an opportunity for trainees to work together, with support from their tutors, to start writing 3 specific sections of their portfolios.

Outdoor First Aid Training

In order to qualify as a Level 3 Forest School Leader, learners will need to hold a 2 day Outdoor/Forest School First Aid course which will equip them with the skills and strategies needed to care for the infants, children and adults involved both in indoor and outdoor activities. 

Handbook and initial session plans/ RAs

Learners will need to write/ update a set of policies and procedures for running Forest School. They will need to plan their introductory session and produce relevant risk assessments for this. Before start of introductory programme/ tutorial

Tutorials

Two group tutorial webinars spaced throughout the course to provide support for coursework portfolio Date TBC – 2025

Introduction to Forest School Programme (6 sessions min.)

Learners will need to plan and run a short Forest School Programme with a small group of approx. 8-16 children/young people in their own setting. Each session needs to be a minimum of 2 hours in length and run with the same group of learners over consecutive weeks. Learners need to be accompanied by at least one other adult (on site) or two adults if they are leaving the grounds of the school/setting. 

Mentoring visit

Whilst you are running your 6-week ‘Introduction to Forest School’ programme, one of your tutors will visit you at your site to provide mentoring support and guidance.  They will observe a session and provide written feedback relating to safety, leadership and your application of the Forest School ethos and principles.

Coursework Portfolio

Learners will need to complete a coursework portfolio for the five areas of learning: Learning and Development, Practical skills, woodland environment, planning a Forest School programme and delivery of a Forest School programme. The evidence comprises written work, photographic evidence, practical demonstration and assessments. To be worked on throughout the training. Hand-in of portfolios 12 months after start date

New Forest School Leader Skills Development Day

An optional day for new Forest School Leaders (or those who have recently completed their training) to attend to practise and improve their practical skills for working with learners at Forest School.