Pathway To Employment
Join thousands who've already started their Forest School journey
There are three accredited levels of Forest Schools training. Each one opens different doors, from volunteering at a local session to running your own Forest Schools programme as a qualified leader.
Your pathway, at a glance
Each level builds on the last. You can begin at any point that matches your experience.
Qualifications accredited by Open Awards under the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF)
What each level qualifies you to do
The qualifications are progressive but flexible. Choose the level that matches where you are now and where you want to get to.
Foundation
Award in Introduction to Forest School Principles (RQF)
An introduction to the Forest Schools ethos, history and core principles. Ideal for parents, teaching assistants, volunteers, or anyone who wants to understand the approach before committing to leader training.
- Forest School Volunteer
- Forest School Helper
Assistant
Award in Forest School Programme Support (RQF)
Equips you to support a qualified leader on a Forest Schools programme. You will learn how sessions are planned, how to assist with risk management, and how to contribute to the day-to-day running of a programme.
- Forest School Assistant
Leader
Certificate in Forest School Programme Leadership (RQF)
The full qualification. Equips you to plan, run and lead your own Forest Schools programme as a qualified practitioner. Includes an additional assessment week beyond Level 2 to confirm leadership readiness.
- Forest School Practitioner
- Forest School Leader
Things worth knowing before you start
Do I need Level 1 before doing Level 3?
No. Level 1 is highly recommended as a grounding, but it is not a prerequisite for Level 3. Most of the Level 1 content is covered again as part of the Level 3 Leader journey, so you can start at Level 3 if you are ready to commit to becoming a qualified Leader.
How are Level 2 and Level 3 different?
Level 2 and Level 3 share the same training process. The difference is that Level 3 candidates complete an additional assessment week, and graduate as qualified Forest School Leaders. Level 2 candidates qualify as Forest School Assistants.
What can I do once qualified?
With Level 1 or 2 you can begin volunteering or assisting at a local Forest School. With Level 3 you are qualified to lead your own sessions, work for a school or nursery as a Forest School Leader, or set up your own independent Forest School practice.
Are these qualifications recognised internationally?
Yes. Our qualifications are accredited by Open Awards under the UK Regulated Qualifications Framework, and are recognised by Forest Schools settings and educational organisations worldwide. We deliver this same training across five continents.
Ready to start your journey?
Browse our upcoming courses to find a training date and location that works for you, or join our community group for support, conversation, and resources from fellow Forest Schools practitioners.
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