Forest Schools Foundation Course
Forest Schools Foundation Course
Nature-Based Learning for the Modern World
Transform how you understand child development & the role of nature in learning through this accredited 2-day course.
Start your Forest Schools journey with Sarah Blackwell and say goodbye to stale classrooms & uninspired learners.
 £297  £197 
Level 1 Full Course Access
Introduction
Breathe New Life
into Learning
Introduction
Breathe New Life
into Learning
In today’s world, children are spending more time indoors than ever before. The traditional classroom limits the freedom to explore, experiment, and develop critical life skills.
This course introduces the fundamentals of the Forest Schools ethos, empowering you to create environments where children can flourish in nature.
Over 25,000 learners worldwide
Hear From Our Learners
"Excellent, life affirming and career changing training delivered by amazing knowledgeable and highly skilled facilitators!"
Julie Brian
Forest Schools Learner
"Seriously, it changed my outlook on teaching. Was ready to quit, but after training, I just knew there was a different way. Love my sessions with the kids, and, more importantly, so do they."
Corinne Clark 
Teacher
"I have never met such passionate, informative, supportive and dedicated people. They ignited my passion for outdoor learning and I can honestly say it was the best thing I've ever done."
Lisa Close
Forest Schools Learner
In The News
Research and News from Around the World
'Unstructured Time Outside Found Key to Boosting Resilience and Creativity in Kids'
BBC News
'Outdoor Play Critical for Child Development, Experts Urge Schools to Prioritise'
The Guardian
'Children’s Health Crisis: Lack of Outdoor Play Linked to Increased Stress and Anxiety'
UCLA Health
'Experts Warn of Decline in Kids' Social Skills Due to Lack of Outdoor Play'
Telegraph
The Training
What Will You Learn?
This introductory course will cover:

Forest School Philosophy: Understand the “why” behind nature-based education.
Essentials of Outdoor Play: Gain hands-on knowledge of how outdoor play benefits physical and mental health.
Fundamental Skills & Activities: Learn core skills, activities, and practices that embody the Forest School approach.
Pathway to Leadership: Get equipped with the foundational knowledge to decide if becoming a Forest School Leader is right for you.
  • Forest School Philosophy: Understand the “why” behind nature-based education.
  • Essentials of Outdoor Play: Gain hands-on knowledge of how outdoor play benefits physical and mental health.
  • ​Fundamental Skills & Activities: Learn core skills, activities, and practices that embody the Forest School approach.
  • ​Pathway to Leadership: Get equipped with the foundational knowledge to decide if becoming a Forest School Leader is right for you.
This course introduces the fundamentals of the Forest Schools ethos, empowering you to create environments where learners can flourish with nature, and gives you the building blocks to incorporate Forest Schools into your longterm goals with learners, no matter the age.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
This Is Your Chance To Claim The Best Deal Of The Year
Who is the course for?
This training is designed for anyone in a role that involves teaching, mentoring, or caregiving. It suits those working with babies, children, adolescents, or NEETs, as well as social care professionals supporting families, young parents, or individuals with mental health or special needs. It’s also valuable for educators, from teachers to school support staff, forestry and countryside workers in social or educational contexts, and home-educators including homeschoolers and unschoolers. If you guide or support individuals in any capacity, this course offers practical tools for fostering growth and connection through nature-based learning.
Do I need prior experience to take this course?
No prior experience is required. This introductory course is suitable for anyone interested in Forest Schools, regardless of their background. It provides foundational knowledge and skills that you can build on if you decide to pursue further qualifications.
Will I get a certificate?
We’ve designed this course to make Forest Schools foundational training easily accessible for everyone giving you access to the course material for discounted price. If you’re looking for an official qualification, you can select the accredited option at checkout for a discounted price, or choose it within the course area at any time. This will grant you an accredited Level 1 Forest Schools Foundation qualification, giving you formal recognition for your learning.
How long is the course and what is the format?
This course is designed to fit into your schedule, and can be complete in just one day to complete. You'll be guided step-by-step through engaging video modules led by Sarah Blackwell, the founder of Forest Schools Education. To enhance your learning, you’ll also gain access to an exclusive discussion group where you can connect with like-minded learners, share insights, and stay updated on Forest Schools topics and developments.
What comes after the Level 1?
After completing the Level 1 training, you’ll be ready to progress to the Level 2 Forest Schools Assistant qualification or directly to the Level 3 Forest Schools Leader qualification, depending on your goals and experience.

Level 2 equips you to work as an assistant to a Level 3 qualified Forest Schools Leader, supporting their programs and gaining valuable hands-on experience in your setting.

Level 3 enables you to become a fully qualified Forest School Leader. In this comprehensive training, you’ll learn how to design and implement long-term Forest Schools programs, create safe and engaging outdoor learning environments, and confidently use tools and fires as part of the curriculum. This qualification gives you the skills and knowledge needed to lead with confidence, inspiring children to explore, grow, and thrive in nature.
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