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.
​
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 Kent
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 Kent where you can use the skills you learn during your Forest School training.
White Cliffs of Dover
The White Cliffs of Dover is a coastline in Kent that faces France and the Strait of Dover. The chalk of the cliff is composed of sea sponges, planktonic microorganisms, and many different ocean floor species such as crinoids, brachiopods, and bivalves. The cliff is a Special Area of Conservation because its grassland habitat is home to many species of butterflies, wildflowers, and birds. Forest school children can have an excellent adventure in this natural setting and learn about different species.
Wildwood Trust
The Wildwood Trust is one of the top animal conservation charities in the UK that aims to protect and conserve Britain’s wildlife. It runs two wildlife parks where children can explore more than 200 native animals, including bears, wolves, bison, deer, owls, foxes, red squirrels, lynx, and many more. The Wildwood Trust’s 40 acre space is set in beautiful ancient woodland with various fauna and flora to help forest school children learn more about wildlife and nature.
Samphire Hoe
Another great nature reserve with a wide range of wildlife species, Samphire Hoe provides extensive learning for children and helps them indulge in nature. The space is 30-hectare wide and consists of many species of plants, birds, and insects. Samphire Hoe is known for hosting a wide variety of birds. It also offers a stunning habitat for flying and crawling insects in different habitats including meadows, ponds, rocks, and grassland to suit them.
