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 Derbyshire
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 Derbyshire where you can use the skills you learn during your Forest School training.
Ilam Park
This 158-acre National Trust country park is managed as part of the White Peak Estate and offers plenty of space to play and explore. Go on woodland walks, take in the views towards Dovedale and Thorpe Cloud and listen to the gentle flowing of the River Manifold. This park provides plenty of opportunities for children to experience the joys of the great outdoors and develop a love for nature.
Dimminsdale Nature Reserve
Situated partly in Derbyshire and partly in Leicestershire, Dimminsdale is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The old quarries have formed lots of pools and brooks, creating habitats for a wide variety of fauna and flora. Children can learn about scrubland, woodland and open water or you can enjoy the snowdrop walk all the way from Calke. These simple pleasures help clear the mind and create an affinity with the natural world.
Cromford Canal
The Cromford Canal runs for 14.5 miles all the way from Cromford to Ambergate and is home to water vole, grass snakes, grebes, moorhen and coots. If you head south you may even spot dragonflies hovering above the water. With such diverse wildlife, the area has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest as well as a local nature reserve. Listen to the birdsong, take a trip on a narrowboat or take a stroll down the path with a pushchair - there is something for everyone.