Level 1 Outdoor Learning:
A fantastic entry-level course that introduces you to the opportunities available through the Forest School and Curriculum-Based Outdoor Learning approaches. Throughout this two-day course, you will complete your Level 1 booklet, providing a solid foundation for your journey in Outdoor Learning.
Please note that this course serves as an introduction; therefore, it does not qualify you to independently lead Forest School or Curriculum-Based Outdoor Learning sessions.
Entry Requirements:
Aged 14 years or over.
Note: DBS checking and a suitable First Aid course is advised but not required for this course.
Level 2 Curriculum-Based Outdoor Learning Practitioner:
Take your curriculum outdoors as you explore over two and a half days the benefits of taking education outdoors while gaining the skills and confidence you need to transform your outdoor spaces into dynamic learning environments. You’ll also plan and deliver at least two Outdoor Learning sessions—all to be completed within six months after starting.
Entry Requirements:
- Aged 16 years or over.
- Level 1 qualification or equivalent (1 GCSE).
- A suitable First Aid qualification is useful to complement this course.
Level 2 Nature-Based Activity Leader (Extended Award in Learning in the Outdoors)
This four-day qualification focuses on developing practical outdoor skills and nature-based activities, designed especially for school environments. Participants will explore the health and wellbeing benefits of outdoor learning, gain hands-on experience with safe tool use, fire skills, knots, shelter building, and learn about natural environments. The course also includes an introduction to risk assessment.
Please Note – this is NOT a Forest School course and does not qualify you to deliver Forest School sessions.
Entry Requirements:
- Aged 16 years or over
- Level 1 qualification or equivalent (1 GCSE)
- A suitable First Aid qualification is useful to complement this course (can be completed after training dates)
A First Aid qualification is not required to complete this course, but is strongly recommended before running any outdoor sessions.
Level 3 Leading Forest School:
Forest School Leader training is designed for those who would like to set up and run a Forest School programme.
Entry Requirements:
An established link with a proposed client group (maximum group size 16 participants). A forest school site. Be over 18 years of age at the start of the course
AND EITHER
Have a Level 2 qualification in education, youth work, childcare etc.
OR
Level 2 in assist forest school, countryside and woodland management with a minimum of two years working with client groups.
ALSO
After the training course days, you are strongly advised to achieve a suitable First Aid qualification and hold a current DBS certificate. This is the responsibility of the setting.
On this course you will:
Attend six training days, which consist of theory and practical skills. attend two days of practical assessment.
Complete portfolio of evidence
Attend virtual surgery sessions to support you to completion
Run a 6-week forest school pilot programme in your chosen setting
Have a work-based assessment by your Forest School trainer during your pilot programme.
This course is equivalent to an ‘A’ Level and trainees have nine months from day one of the course to complete the course.