Certificate for Forest School Leaders

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. 

Course Content

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

Independent practical course work requirements

As 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.

This is an 18 credit unit course. 

Additional Qualifications

You can also choose to study your Forest School First Aid course with us. 

 

Please do not delay your booking – to guarantee your place, please book 2 weeks in advance of course date

Campus attendance dates:

10^th, 11^th, 17^th, 18^th, 24^th, 25^th Mar, 28^th, 29^th Apr, 2^nd , 3^rd June 2025 - 9.15am – 4.15pm

14^th July 2025 - 10.00am – 12.00pm

There are no specific entry requirements however learners must be 21+ 

Plumpton College recommend students have prior experience in the education or wildlife sector, for example Qualified Teachers, Teaching Assistants, Youth workers, Forest School Volunteers, Outdoor Educators, Education/Wildlife Officers, Rangers or Ecologists.

Course Cost

£1,017 for the full course.