Certificate for Forest School Leaders Level 3

This rich and rewarding qualification is designed provide students with the practical skills, learning and development theory as well as essential woodland ecology and management understanding needed to plan and deliver Forest School programmes. The qualification prepares students to plan and deliver Forest School activities for children, young people or adults in an outdoor learning environment. Successful completion of this course will provide students with the qualification required to gain employment as Forest School Leader, in a school environment, with outdoor education providers or as independent practitioner. To provide learners with an understanding of the principles of Forest School and the skills required for facilitating outdoor activities using a Forest School approach. Develop the knowledge, understanding and theories required to plan and deliver a Forest School programme, be able to monitor and support students’ progress and maintain an ecologically sustainable environment.

The assessment is via completion of practical and written tasks including a portfolio of evidence.

The topics covered include:

• Planning a Forest School Programme
• -policies, procedures and theories underpinning a Forest School programme
• Delivery of a Forest School Programme
• -structure, planning and delivery of practical Forest School sessions
• Learning and Development at a Forest School Programme
• -learning, development, observation and progression of Forest School learners
• Forest School Programmes and the Woodland Environment
• -understanding of woodland ecology, woodland management and environmental impact of Forest School activities
• Practical Skills for a Forest School Programme
• -basic hand tool use, environment based activities and crafts, games, survival and bush craft skills
• Independent practical course work requirements

As part of the assessment for this qualification students are required to plan and deliver a six consecutive session Forest School programme. Students will additionally be require to observe and report on the learning and development of three participants during these sessions. This component of the course is undertaken as independent work by the students. Support and guidance will be provided by the course tutor.

The Level 2 Award in Introduction to Forest School Programme Support (QCF) enables progression into employment as a Forest School Leader, further learning opportunities within employment, or further study. The qualification can provide a first step onto a career path within the Forest School or other Outdoor Education sector. Students can progress their knowledge and learning areas through progression to further training or studies in Environmental, Educational and Forestry related course.

Progression routes to further study include:

• Foundation Degree in Environmental Conservation Management
• BSC Rural Land Management
• Forestry and Arboriculture Courses.