A Perfect First Step for Future Forest School Leaders
The First Supported Level 1 Award in Forest School Principles Programme Designed Specifically for Young People
Starts 18th January 2027
Does your young person love nature, enjoy being outdoors or dream of one day becoming a Forest School Leader?
The Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School is a nationally recognised qualification that introduces young people to the principles, ethos and practice of Forest School.
Our programme has been created to make this recognised qualification more accessible for young people. Through a small, supported cohort, flexible online learning and an extended study programme, learners can work towards the same nationally recognised qualification in a way that builds confidence and removes unnecessary barriers to participation.
Whether your young person wants to deepen their understanding of Forest School, strengthen future education and employment opportunities or one day become a Forest School Leader, this qualification is the perfect first step.
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This programme has been designed for young people aged 14 years and over who:
Have a passion for nature and the outdoors.
Have previously attended Forest School or enjoy formal or informal outdoor learning.
Would like to gain a nationally recognised qualification.
Are interested in volunteering or working in outdoor education in the future.
May wish to progress onto higher Forest School qualifications, including Forest School Leader training.
While many Level 1 Forest School courses are delivered as short, intensive programmes, often aimed primarily at adults, we’ve designed this programme specifically for young people aged 14 and over.
The qualification is exactly the same nationally recognised Open Awards qualification. What’s different is how it’s delivered.
With a small supported cohort, live online teaching, flexible study options and learning spread across 15 teaching weeks, we’ve created a programme that removes many of the barriers that can prevent young people from accessing recognised Forest School qualifications.
Designed primarily for young people aged 14-18, it will also be suitable for older learners who would benefit from a more supported approach to gaining the qualification.
The Open Awards Level 1 Award in Introduction to Forest School Principles is a nationally recognised qualification awarded by Open Awards, an Ofqual-regulated awarding organisation.
This means your young person will achieve a recognised qualification that meets national standards and can support future progression into further Forest School qualifications, volunteering, employment and other educational opportunities.
Many people who undertake the Level 1 qualification are adults who choose to take the course in person over a short, but intensive period.
In response to requests from families, we have adapted this programme for our young people (age 14 and up), to increase accessibility. Our students will still gain the same nationally accredited qualification, but complete it with more support over a longer period.
This qualification is ideal for young people who want to deepen their understanding of Forest School, gain a recognised qualification and begin exploring future pathways into outdoor learning, education, conservation and environmental careers.
No previous qualifications are required.
Alongside GCSEs and other qualifications, the Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School can help young people demonstrate commitment, initiative and a genuine interest in the outdoors.
It can strengthen applications for volunteering, college courses and future employment, while providing a recognised first step towards careers in Forest School, conservation, environmental education and outdoor learning.
For some young people, this qualification will be the first step towards becoming a Forest School Leader, providing a recognised foundation for progressing to higher Forest School qualifications in the future.
For others, it will strengthen applications for further study, volunteering and careers where a passion for nature and outdoor learning is valued.
The qualification may support future pathways into:
Forest School
Conservation and wildlife
Environmental education
Sustainability
Outdoor learning
Childcare and education
Countryside and environmental management
For many young people, it also becomes a valuable addition to their portfolio of qualifications, demonstrating commitment, initiative and a genuine interest in nature and the environment.
Whether your child dreams of leading Forest School sessions, protecting the natural world or simply wants to gain a recognised qualification that reflects their interests, the Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School is an excellent place to begin.
The Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School is the first step in the Forest School qualification pathway.
After completing Level 1, learners can continue their journey by progressing to:
Level 2 Award in Forest School Programme Support (available from age 16), which prepares learners to support Forest School sessions as a Forest School Assistant.
Level 3 Certificate in Forest School Programme Leadership (available from age 19), which prepares learners to become a qualified Forest School Leader.
To work independently as a qualified Forest School Leader, the Department for Education and the Forest School Association require practitioners to be at least 21 years old.
For some young people, this qualification will be the beginning of their Forest School journey. Others use it to strengthen applications for further study or careers in Forest School, conservation, wildlife, sustainability, outdoor learning, environmental education and childcare, or simply as a valuable addition to their portfolio of qualifications.
Whether your young person wants to gain a nationally recognised qualification or dreams of working outdoors, the Level 1 is an excellent place to begin.
Most young people build their future through academic qualifications such as GCSEs. These are an important foundation, but they don’t always tell the whole story.
The Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School complements academic study by allowing young people to gain a nationally recognised qualification in an area they’re genuinely passionate about.
It shows future colleges, volunteering organisations and employers that your child has chosen to develop knowledge beyond the classroom. It demonstrates commitment, initiative and a genuine interest in outdoor learning and the natural environment.
For young people considering careers in Forest School, education, conservation, sustainability or outdoor learning, it also provides a recognised first step into the sector and a clear foundation for future progression.
Sometimes the qualifications that stand out most aren’t the ones everyone expects, they’re the ones that reflect who a young person is and where they hope to go.
If you’d like to talk through where this could lead…
Age: 14+
Start: 18th January 2027
Duration: Approximately 15 teaching weeks (January-June)
Study time: Around 2 hours per week
Delivery: Bite-sized pre-recorded lessons, activities and six live online sessions (with recordings available)
Assessment: Portfolio of evidence (no final exam)
Qualification: Nationally recognised Open Awards qualification
Progression: Level 2 Forest School Programme Support or Level 3 Forest School Programme Leadership (age requirements apply)
Costs: £375
Payment plans: £62.50 per month for 6 months, £31.25 per month for 12 months or pay in full.
We recognise that many young people thrive when learning is flexible.
Whether your child is neurodivergent, has health appointments, manages anxiety, balances other commitments or simply learns best at their own pace, we’ve designed this programme to remove unnecessary barriers wherever possible.
Many of our learners have busy family lives, medical appointments, additional needs or periods when learning simply feels more difficult.
Rather than expecting every learner to attend at exactly the same time each week, live sessions are recorded so they can be watched later if needed.
Learning is self-paced with flexible progression and up to 12 months to complete the qualification.
We’re committed to helping young people succeed by working around life, not expecting life to fit around the course.
Many Level 1 Forest School courses are delivered over three intensive days at set times. If a learner is unable to attend one of those days, they are unlikely to be able to gain the qualification.
Our programme takes a different approach. The qualification is the same nationally recognised Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School. What’s different is how we deliver it.
Learning is spread across approximately 15 teaching weeks between January and June, with around two hours of study each week and breaks during school holidays. This gives learners time to build confidence, consolidate their learning and enjoy the process.
We also recognise that every young person learns differently.
Some enjoy studying a little each week. Others prefer to complete larger chunks of learning when they’re feeling motivated. Our programme allows learners to progress more quickly or more slowly where needed, giving families greater flexibility.
The result is a recognised qualification that’s designed to be more accessible for young people while maintaining the same high standards.
The Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School Principles introduces young people to the knowledge and principles that underpin high-quality Forest School practice.
Rather than simply exploring woodland activities, learners develop an understanding of the philosophy, values and approach that make Forest School such a unique way of learning.
Throughout the programme, your young person will explore topics including:
✅ The ethos and principles of Forest School.
✅ How children learn through Forest School.
✅ The benefits of outdoor learning.
✅ Woodland environments and species.
✅ Looking after the natural environment.
✅ Hazards, risk awareness and safe practice.
As an Ofqual-regulated Level 1 qualification, it has been designed to prepare learners for further study and future progression. It can be studied alongside GCSEs and other qualifications, making it an excellent way for young people to broaden their knowledge while working towards a nationally recognised award.
Whether your child hopes to become a Forest School Leader in the future or simply wants to deepen their understanding of nature and outdoor learning, this qualification provides an excellent foundation for the next stage of their journey.
The Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School is assessed through a portfolio of evidence rather than a final written examination.
Throughout the programme, learners complete a range of short assessment activities that gradually build into their portfolio, allowing them to demonstrate their understanding as they progress.
Our tutors provide feedback and guidance throughout, helping learners build confidence while working towards the qualification.
We believe assessment should support learning, not create unnecessary barriers.
Because the qualification is portfolio based, learners can complete assessment activities alongside their learning rather than preparing for a single final exam. Wherever possible, we work with families to ensure learners can demonstrate their understanding in ways that are accessible while continuing to meet the requirements of the Open Awards qualification.
Some Forest School qualifications require learners to attend and observe a live Forest School session as part of the assessment.
The Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School does not include this requirement, removing what can be a significant practical barrier for many families.
Instead, learners explore what high-quality Forest School practice looks like through a live virtual Forest School field trip and guided reflection on their own experiences of outdoor learning.
Yes.
The programme is designed to run between January and June, with around two hours of study each week. However, we recognise that every learner works differently.
Where appropriate, learners can access future modules earlier and progress through the qualification more quickly. Equally, those who need additional time can take up to 12 months to complete the programme, allowing them to learn at a pace that works for them.
If you’re unsure whether this programme is suitable for your child, we’d be happy to talk through their individual needs and answer any questions before you enrol.
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This is much more than a qualification, It’s a complete learning programme. We combine a nationally recognised Open Awards qualification with structured teaching, ongoing tutor support and flexible learning to help every learner reach their potential.
The programme includes:
Open Awards Level 1 Award in Introduction to Forest School Principles (RQF)
Approximately 30 hours of guided learning
Bite-sized pre-recorded teaching videos
Six live online teaching sessions (with recordings available)
Tutor support throughout the programme
Portfolio assessment and feedback
Live virtual Forest School field trip
Qualification registration and certification
12 months’ access to the programme materials
Your young person won’t be completing this qualification alone.
The programme is delivered by experienced Forest School Leaders and educators, with access to ongoing support throughout the course. Learners will also have access to a qualified counsellor and dedicated Student Support Co-ordinator, ensuring they receive both academic guidance and pastoral support whenever it’s needed.
Whether they have a question about the course, need encouragement with an assessment or simply require a little extra support, our team is here to help every step of the way.
We’ve intentionally kept our cohorts small.
This not only allows tutors to provide more personalised support, but also helps create a welcoming learning environment where young people can get to know one another over time.
For many learners, particularly those who are neurodivergent or home educated, studying alongside a familiar group of like-minded young people can help build confidence and make learning feel less isolating.
The total cost of the programme is £375. This includes all tuition, qualification registration, assessment and certification fees.
You can choose to pay in full or spread the cost with one of our flexible payment plans below:
6 monthly payments: £62.50 per month
12 monthly payments: £31.25 per month
Starts 18th January 2026
Over the past few years, we’ve received increasing numbers of enquiries from families looking for a recognised Forest School qualification that was genuinely accessible for young people.
Many existing Level 1 programmes are delivered as short, intensive courses, often designed with adult learners in mind. We wanted to create something different.
That’s why we’ve developed what we believe is the first supported Level 1 Forest School programme designed specifically for young people- combining a nationally recognised Open Awards qualification with a small, supportive cohort, flexible online learning and a pace designed to help young people succeed.
We believe a recognised qualification should be accessible to more young people.
That’s why we’ve carefully designed this programme to remove unnecessary barriers to participation, while maintaining the integrity of the nationally recognised Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School.
The programme has been carefully designed to make a nationally recognised qualification more accessible for many young people who are neurodivergent or have SEND.
Your child will work towards exactly the same Open Awards Level 1 Award in an Introduction to Forest School Principles as other learners. The qualification itself has not been changed or simplified.
What we’ve adapted is the way it’s delivered.
Rather than expecting learners to complete an intensive adult course over a few days, we’ve spread the programme over a longer period, providing a small, supportive cohort, flexible online learning, recorded teaching sessions and regular tutor support. This gives young people more time to build confidence, consolidate their learning and successfully achieve the qualification.
Every young person is different, so if you’re unsure whether the programme is suitable for your child, we’d be happy to discuss their individual needs before you enrol.
Although the programme is open to all young people aged 14-18, it has been intentionally designed with accessibility at its heart, particularly for learners who are neurodivergent or have SEND.
Many Forest School Level 1 qualifications are delivered as intensive adult courses over just a few days. For some learners, this can create unnecessary barriers to success.
We’ve taken a different approach
Learners work towards exactly the same nationally recognised Open Awards Level 1 Award in Forest School, but with a delivery model designed specifically for young people.
Bite-sized learning, recorded live sessions, flexible pacing, portfolio-based assessment, small cohort sizes and ongoing tutor support help make the qualification more accessible while maintaining the same high standards.
Whether your young person is autistic, has ADHD, dyslexia, anxiety or another additional needs. Or perhaps they simply learn best with more time and flexibility- our aim is to provide the support they need to achieve a recognised qualification with confidence.
No previous qualifications or Forest School experience are required. If your young person is aged 14 or above and has an interest in nature and outdoor learning, we’d love to welcome them onto the programme.
We’re delighted to be launching the first cohort of our Level 1 Forest School Programme for Young People in January 2027.
Our first cohort will be intentionally small, with limited places available to ensure every young person benefits from a highly supportive learning experience. Keeping numbers low allows our tutors to get to know each learner, provide personalised guidance, respond flexibly to individual needs and create a positive, encouraging learning environment where confidence can grow alongside knowledge.
This programme will run once each year, making places on our first cohort particularly limited. If you’d like your young person to join us in January 2027, we recommend reserving a place or joining the waiting list early.
For many young people, one of the most rewarding parts of our programmes is the opportunity to learn alongside others who share a genuine interest in nature and the outdoors.
Through our live online sessions, learners can meet other young people from across the UK, share ideas, discuss what they’re learning and build connections with others who have similar interests.
For home educated learners, those studying independently or young people who don’t often meet others who share their passion for nature, these sessions can provide a valuable sense of community alongside the qualification.
Young people who love nature don’t always have opportunities to meet others who share the same interests.
Throughout the programme, learners become part of a small cohort of young people who are all working towards the same nationally recognised qualification.
Whether discussing Forest School, sharing ideas from their local green spaces or celebrating milestones together, the programme creates opportunities for friendships and connections to grow naturally alongside learning.
Starts on the 18th January 2027
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