Using local woods, Forest Schools encourage children to explore the environment in order to develop healthy bodies, social skills and love of the natural world. Pupils take part in child-centred and then child-led activities learning about the need for taking risks, taking care and taking responsibility.

The Forest Schools ethos focuses on learning styles that maximise emotional, social and behavioural development.

Based on a Scandinavian idea, Forest Schools is a long term programme where young people attend on a regular basis,working in an outdoor environment with qualified practitioners and teachers. Forest Schools enhance main stream education and offer an alternative curriculum in an outdoor context.

Sessions can be tailored to suit all year groups and abilities.

"Children of all ages and all abilities find special places and unique interests in the woods. Each of them can succeed at something, and they learn new ways of co-operating and communicating"
- Gill Brigg, Green Light Education Adviser

What we offer

OCN Level 1 Forest Schools Skills Award - An introduction for people interested in Forest Schools techniques.

This course involves 30 hours working in an outdoor setting combining theory and practical activities which include: carrying out tasks to support learners outdoors,identifying woodland life,using woodland as a resource for learning

OCN Level 3 Forest Schools Leaders Award - A leadership course for professionals, independents and those working with groups of children/young people.

The training comprises a first-aid outdoors weekend, a 5-day intensive training week, a 2-day residential and a one day tutorial and assessment

Training courses are for teachers, nursery nurses, LSA's and all interested in using Forest Schools techniques in their work environments.

For both courses, participants need to hold a current CRB certificate.