Certificate for Forest School Leaders

Course overview

Course Outline
This rich and rewarding qualification is designed provide
students with the practical skills, learning and development theory as well as
essential woodland ecology and management understanding needed to plan and
deliver Forest School programmes. The qualification prepares students to plan
and deliver Forest School activities for children, young people or adults in an
outdoor learning environment.  Successful completion of this course will
provide students with the qualification required to gain employment as Forest
School Leader, in a school environment, with outdoor education providers or as
independent practitioner.

Course Aim
To provide learners with an understanding of the principles of
Forest School and the skills required for facilitating outdoor activities using
a Forest School approach. Develop the knowledge, understanding and theories
required to plan and deliver a Forest School programme, be able to monitor and
support students’ progress and maintain an ecologically sustainable environment.

Modules

The assessment is via completion of practical and written tasks including a portfolio of evidence.

The topics covered include:

• Planning a Forest School Programme
• Policies, procedures and theories underpinning a Forest School programme
• Delivery of a Forest School Programme
• Structure, planning and delivery of practical Forest School sessions
• Learning and Development at a Forest School Programme
• Learning, development, observation and progression of Forest School learners
• Forest School Programmes and the Woodland Environment
• Understanding of woodland ecology, woodland management and environmental impact of Forest School activities
• Practical Skills for a Forest School Programme
• Basic hand tool use, environment based activities and crafts, games, survival and bush craft skills

How will I be assessed?

Independent practical coursework requirementsAs part of the assessment for this qualification students are required to plan and deliver a six consecutive session Forest School programme. Students will additionally be require to observe and report on the learning and development of three participants during these sessions. This component of the course is undertaken as independent work by the students. Support and guidance will be provided by the course tutor.

Please note: students will be required to source their own placement in an existing forest school provision in order to facilitate this independent coursework unit. For more information, please contact our enquiries team: enquiries@plumpton.ac.uk

This is an 18 credit unit course, awarded by AIM Qualifications & Assessment Group. For more detailed information on the full qualification, visit their website.

Student testimonial

The comprehensive curriculum provided me with an invaluable understanding of forest school pedagogy and practical facilitation skills. I found the hands-on experience in the natural environment to be particularly enriching and directly applicable to my future practice. Lynn, the tutor, demonstrated exceptional knowledge and a genuine passion for forest school education, creating a friendly,  supportive and engaging learning atmosphere. I am confident that the skills and knowledge gained will enable me to effectively lead and inspire others in outdoor learning settings. I highly recommend this course to anyone aspiring to become a qualified Forest School Leader. Thank you for this friendly, transformative educational experience.

James – Level 3 Forest School Leaders