Forest School training FAQ's
What will happen prior to the training?
We will meet or chat on the phone in advance to look at course material, structure and answer questions you might have. It will also be an opportunity to get you started on looking at relevant information and resources and start some reading and thinking prior to the course.
What will the 7 days of face to face training involve?
The first 5 days will have a strong focus on practical skills development through building confidence and ideas to develop your approach as a Forest School leader. During this time you will explore many common forest school activities from sensory games and exploration in the woodland environment to using tools and fires to enable you to use these in the future with your groups. The last 2 days of the formal training will then involve some supportive skills assessment on tools, fires & cooking and the use of ropes and knots.
What will happen after the course?
The priority following the training will be to complete your handbook which will inform you future practice as a Forest School leader - you will be given full guidance on this. Once this is completed as a first draft you will submit this to receive some supportive feedback.
When can I start delivering sessions?
Once you have completed your skills assessments on the course and a usable handbook that has been commented on you can then start delivering your sessions assuming you have risk assessments, first aid provision and insurance in place. As part of completing the course components you will need to run 6 sessions with the same group - with a minimum group size of 6-8 - and ideally not more than 15. Do discuss this if this will be a challenge.
Who accredits the course?
The accreditation for the training is provided through AIM awards - they offer the most up to date best practice version of Forest School training as agreed by the national guiding body - the Forest School Association.
What else will I need to complete?
You will also be observed or submit some video of you delivering a session with your group to provide an opportunity to gain some constructive feedback on your approach and practice. You will then need to complete the written work that you will be given guidance on over the year following your face to to face training sessions.
What first aid will best support delivery forest school?
If you are working on a normal school or nursery site and have a current first aid certificate then there is no need to redo you first aid till it runs out. Best practice for forest school and important if you are on a remote site is having outdoor or forest school first aid. The Forest of Avon Trust organises a good course in Bristol 3 times a year.