🌿 Forest School Training: Which Level is Right for You?
Join thousands who've already started their Forest School journey
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.
