Get Out More has been delivering accredited forest school training since 2021 and we receive a lot of interest from people who are interested in gaining qualifications in forest school. This blog post aims to answer some of the more frequently asked questions and provide information on the Level 1 Award in Forest School Ethos and Principles.

Who is this training for?

The Level 1 course is suitable for anyone working with children and young people such as teaching staff, nursery workers, youth workers, volunteers and parents. It is ideal for people wanting to gain skills working outdoors with individuals and groups, and for those who want to explore forest schools, its ethos and benefits.  As an introductory course for those interested in finding out more about forest schools, it does not equip learners to run forest school programmes.  Those interested in leading or supporting forest school groups should consider the Level 2 and Level 3 training courses.

What will I learn?

Learners will participate in a range of basic woodland skills, including games, knots, tool use, crafts, fire skills and nature identification techniques. Alongside the practical skills, you will learn about the ethos and principles of forest school and how it can support child development and encourage positive social and emotional outcomes such as independence, self-reliance confidence and self-esteem

Is the course accredited?

Yes, Get Out More delivers the course developed by Kindling Training  and Scotswood Garden.  The course is accredited by ITC First. More information can be found here.

Who is the course tutor?

All our forest school training courses are taught by Annie Berrington, the founder and Managing Director of Get Out More.  Annie has run forest schools in Yorkshire since 2010 and is pleased to share her years’ of experience and enthusiasm for forest school with learners.  She gained an ITC Level 3 Award in Education and Training in March 2021 and has since delivered 20+ forest school training courses, supporting hundreds of people on their first steps on their forest school journey.

How long does it take to complete the course?

The course is three days long, either completed over consecutive days, or broken into three separate days over three weeks depending on the course schedule.  Learners need to attend at least 90% of the course hours to complete the qualification

How will I be assessed?

Alongside the attendance and participation in the practical skills, there is a short portfolio of work to be completed  during the course and handed in on the last day.  If learners require more time, then they can take the workbook home and return it within 7 days.

What if I have support needs?

If learners have support needs that impact on ability to participate in the practical skills or complete the portfolio work, please discuss these with us as soon as possible.  Get Out More is committed to making our programmes as inclusive as possible and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation and assessment.

When is the next course taking place?

Our next courses are displayed over on the Development section of our website.

What is the cost of the course and is there funding available?

The course costs £300 per participant.  We are always looking for funding streams to make our training programmes accessible to all, but cannot guarantee this.  Please get in touch if you would like to enquire if there are any available funded or subsidised place or to discuss a payment plan.

Can you run forest school training for our organisation or school?

Yes! Get Out More can deliver forest school training at your setting! Providing there is adequate teaching space and outdoor space in which to deliver forest school activities. We have run courses on behalf of schools and organisations, provided there is a guaranteed minimal number of places (e.g. 8).  We are happy to cater to your setting’s needs, so get in touch to discuss how we can help.

Hopefully this answers your questions and you are feeling ready to take the first step into the world of Forest School. However, if you still need more information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at [email protected]. We’re here to help!