Enjoy a rewarding career
Forest School is an innovative educational approach to outdoor play and learning. Its philosophy is to encourage and inspire children of all ages through positive outdoor experiences. It is a way of learning that offers everyone opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands-on learning in the woodland or natural environment.
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One of the most important and rewarding roles of a Forest School Leader is the ability to provide support for the social and emotional development of children, in particular those combatting low self-esteem.
About the Forest School course
We provide the Level 3 Forest School Leader qualification which consists of five mandatory units, two of which are predominantly the theory behind Forest School, its background and how it links to the Early Years Foundation Stage. Through these courses, you will understand the Forest School Ethos, develop practical outdoor skills and be able to assist or deliver Forest School programmes.
As part of the training we promote reflective practice for self-development and deeper learning, therefore the remaining units consist of planning and delivering six Forest School sessions and demonstrating the candidates competency skills. Learners are provided with practical skills training where they are given the opportunity to learn about the key elements of delivering Forest School specifically to early years children and how to manage the site of your forest school, which includes the use of tools, den-building, knot-tying and making fires safely to cook. This practical training can be arranged in groups or on a one to one basis.
24/7 support from an experienced assessor
You're partnered with a knowledgeable assessor who will support you throughout your learning journey.
Bespoke training online or face-to-face
Choose the format that's right for you. Enjoy the flexibility of digital or the extra personalised nature of in-person training.
Learning style adaptations
Learn how you learn best. We adjust our training courses according to you so you can pass with flying colours.
Career progression advice
Get advice from experts in the sector on how to best achieve your goals. Map out your journey from where you are now.
Why choose Broaden?
Popular natural settings in Greater London
The ethos behind Forest School is that any natural setting can provide an opportunity for children to grow in confidence, explore risk-taking, and develop a curiosity for wildlife. It doesn't matter whether you live in a city or in a rural village; small parks, large nature reserves and even your doorstep can provide the foundation for positive experiences. With that in mind, here we list some of the most popular natural settings in Greater London where you can use the skills you learn during your Forest School training.
Hampstead Heath
Less than four miles from the city centre and sprawling an area of 800 acres, Hampstead Heath is a wild park that features woodland, meadow and a variety of swimming ponds. The wild park consists of remarkable natural habitats, including ancient woodland and grassland, where children can foster their love and curiosity for nature while also taking part in various exciting activities. Whitestone, Highgate, and Hampstead ponds are the main spots of attraction for many people.
Walthamstow Wetlands
Walthamstow Wetlands is one of the largest urban wetland nature reserves in Europe and acts as a byway for many wintering, migrating, and breeding birds. Among London’s drinking water reservoirs, Walthamstow Reservoirs support most wetland birds and are home to large numbers of cormorants, tufted duck, and grey heron. The wetland also features zebra mussels that are native to Russia and Ukraine. Children can discover and explore this unique setting and engage in many fun activities.
Richmond Park
With protected status, Richmond Park in London is home to all sorts of rare species of flora and fauna, including birds, bats and fungi. It is the largest Site of Special Scientific Interest in London, with plenty of green space. Early years children can have a relaxing stroll along the paths and discover the diversity in the ecosystem, including deer, ancient trees and wildflowers. You can even spot St Paul's Cathedral in the distance if you look hard enough.
