Does your young person love nature, enjoy learning outdoors or dream of one day becoming a Forest School Leader?

The Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School introduces young people to the principles, ethos and practice of Forest School through a nationally recognised qualification.

While many Level 1 Forest School courses are delivered as short, intensive programmes designed primarily for adults, we've created something different.

Our programme has been designed specifically for young people, combining flexible online learning, bite-sized lessons, live tutor support and a small cohort to help learners gain the same recognised qualification in a way that builds confidence and removes unnecessary barriers to participation.

Whether your young person hopes to become a Forest School Leader in the future or simply wants to gain a recognised qualification in an area they're passionate about, this programme is the perfect first step.

Throughout the programme, learners will:

• Gain the nationally recognised Open Awards Level 1 Award in Introduction to Forest School Principles (RQF)

• Explore the ethos and principles that underpin Forest School practice

• Develop a deeper understanding of woodland environments and outdoor learning

• Learn about risk awareness, environmental responsibility and safe practice

• Build confidence through supportive, portfolio-based assessment

• Strengthen future applications for volunteering, college and outdoor careers

• Take the first step towards future Forest School qualifications

Designed for young people aged 14+, no previous qualifications or Forest School experience are required.

Your enrolment includes

✔ Open Awards Level 1 Award in Introduction to Forest School Principles

✔ Approximately 30 hours of guided learning

✔ Bite-sized pre-recorded teaching videos

✔ Six live online teaching sessions (recordings included)

✔ Live virtual Forest School field trip

✔ Portfolio assessment with personalised tutor feedback

✔ Dedicated tutor and student support throughout

✔ Qualification registration and certification

✔ Lifetime access to all learning materials

The programme combines:

• Flexible self-paced online learning

• Bite-sized teaching videos

• Six live online teaching sessions

• Portfolio-based assessment with no final written exam

• Personalised tutor feedback

• A small, supportive learning community

• Up to 12 months to complete the qualification if needed

Learning is spread across approximately 15 teaching weeks, with around two hours of study each week, allowing learners to build confidence without the pressure of an intensive adult course.

Live sessions are recorded, making it easier to fit learning around family life, appointments and other commitments.

By the end of the programme, learners will have:

• The nationally recognised Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School

• A strong understanding of Forest School philosophy and practice

• Greater confidence in outdoor learning and woodland environments

• A recognised qualification that complements GCSEs and other studies

• A foundation for progressing towards Level 2 Forest School Programme Support and, later, Level 3 Forest School Programme Leadership

• A valuable qualification that demonstrates commitment, initiative and a genuine passion for nature

Whether your young person hopes to work in Forest School, conservation, education, sustainability or simply wants to develop knowledge in an area they love, this qualification provides an excellent place to begin.