Course Information
🌿 Forest School Training: Which Level is Right for You?
Whether you're just beginning your Forest School journey or ready to lead your own sessions, our training courses offer a clear pathway to suit your goals, experience, and lifestyle.
✅ At a Glance: What Each Level Allows You to Do
Level | Who It’s For | What You Can Do |
---|---|---|
Level 1 | Curious beginners or occasional helpers | Learn the ethos and benefits of Forest Schools. Great for volunteers or those exploring the idea. |
Level 2 | Supporters who want to assist sessions | Assist a qualified Level 3 Practitioner during sessions and help deliver Forest School activities. |
Level 3 | Leaders and educators ready to take the lead | Run your own Forest School programme, lead sessions independently, and manage other staff. |
🌱 Level 1: Introduction to Forest School Ethos
Perfect for:
✔️ Volunteers
✔️ Teaching assistants
✔️ Early Years staff
✔️ Anyone interested in Forest School philosophy
What you’ll learn:
✔️ The core principles of Forest School
✔️ How nature supports child development
✔️ The importance of play and exploration
✔️ Introduction to safe practice outdoors
Format: 100% Online
Outcome: Certificate of Completion
Note: This course does not qualify you to assist or run Forest School sessions—it’s an inspiring first step.
🪵 Level 2: Forest School Assistant Practitioner
Perfect for:
✔️ Those who want to support existing Forest School Leaders
✔️ Teaching assistants, outdoor educators, youth workers
✔️ People considering Level 3 in the future
What you’ll learn:
✔️ How to assist a Level 3 practitioner in sessions
✔️ Supporting learners outdoors
✔️ Helping with planning, resources and risk management
✔️ Developing reflective practice
Format: Practical sessions alongside the Level 3
Outcome: Level 2 Forest School Assistant Practitioner Award
Qualifies you to: Assist—but not lead—Forest School sessions under a Level 3 practitioner.
🌳 Level 3: Become a Qualified Forest School Leader
Perfect for:
✔️ Teachers, educators, and outdoor professionals
✔️ Those ready to lead their own Forest School programmes
✔️ Anyone passionate about facilitating deep, long-term nature-based learning
What you’ll learn:
✔️ How to plan, deliver, and lead Forest School programmes
✔️ Setting up and managing a Forest School site
✔️ Advanced observation, assessment and reflective practice
✔️ Child development and holistic learning
✔️ Tool use, fire lighting, shelters, knots, and more
Qualifies you to:
✔️ Run Forest School sessions independently
✔️ Lead your own Forest School programme
✔️ Take responsibility for staff, planning, risk management, and delivery
🧭 Choose Your Level 3 Training Format
We offer three flexible ways to complete your Level 3 training—each leading to the same internationally recognised qualification.
🌲 5-Day Face-to-Face Training
Best for: Those who want full immersion with hands-on training from day one.
Includes:
✔️ 5 consecutive days of practical, in-person learning
✔️ 2 day follow up assessment (about 9 months after the initial training
✔️ Group collaboration and tutor-led outdoor activities
✔️ Full access to online materials and assessment platform
Location: Various woodland sites across the UK and internationally
🌿 2-Day Hybrid Training
Best for: Those who want a mix of face-to-face and online learning.
Includes:
✔️ 2 days of practical in-person training
✔️ Online video tutorials, downloadable resources, and assignments
✔️ Support from experienced tutors
Ideal if you're balancing work, travel or family commitments.
🌐 100% Online Level 3
Best for: Those who want the flexibility to train from anywhere in the world.
Includes:
✔️ Comprehensive video lessons and reading materials
✔️ Step-by-step guidance through your portfolio
✔️ Tutor support throughout your journey
Perfect for international learners or those looking for total flexibility.
🎓 All Level 3 Courses Include:
✔️ Qualification approved by Open Awards
✔️ Tutor support throughout your training
✔️ A certificate upon successful completion
✔️ Pathways to further professional development
Not Sure Which One’s Right for You?
If you’re unsure which level or format suits you best, we’re here to help.
👉 Contact us or view upcoming courses to get started.