Level 3 Forest School Leader Training
Children of the Forest — September 2025 Cohort
Course Format & Delivery
Course title: Forest School Leader Training Level 3 at Children of the Forest
The qualification is accredited through AIM Qualifications.
You can view the full qualification specification here:
📄 Course Specification PDF
The course runs over a 10-month academic year, starting in September 2025 and finishing by September 2026. Learners attend:
10 in-person training days, delivered across:
3 Sundays in September (Autumn block)
3 Sundays in Spring (Spring block)
4 Sundays in Summer (Summer block)
This seasonal structure gives learners hands-on experience across weather conditions, outdoor environments, and shifting group dynamics. It also allows time to absorb, reflect, apply, and return with questions throughout the year.
Online Check-ins:
Between training blocks, learners join monthly Zoom calls arranged at mutually convenient times. These check-ins support coursework, confidence, and community.
Site Visit Option:
Each learner is offered an optional site visit from their tutor. This is not a formal observation, but a supportive consultation. It may focus on:
Site design
Individual learner support
Communicating with senior leadership
Any area of challenge or curiosity in your setting
Study Expectations:
Learners should plan for around 96 guided learning hours over the year. Some complete coursework alongside training, others wait until later in the process — this is entirely up to the learner.
Entry Requirements
We welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds. If you’re unsure whether now is the right time, you’re encouraged to book a free discovery call.
Minimum Requirements:
Aged 19 or older
Level 2 English and Maths (or equivalent) recommended
DBS check must be in place before starting your practical placement
16+ hour Outdoor First Aid is required before delivering sessions (can be gained during the course)
Previous Experience:
No prior Forest School or outdoor experience is required. The course adapts to the needs and strengths of each cohort.
Placement Access:
You’ll need access to:
A group of 8–16 children
A site suitable for delivering Forest School sessions
You must deliver:
Six 2-hour Forest School sessions with the same group
We can support learners in finding a site or group if needed. For those completing their placement with Children of the Forest, a 12-week volunteer commitment is required (6 weeks observing, 6 weeks leading).
Digital Requirements:
Reliable internet access
Ability to use Zoom
Comfortable uploading documents or media
Alternative arrangements (e.g. paper submissions or video-based work) can be made to meet individual needs.
Assessment & Portfolio
This course is pass/fail, assessed via a flexible digital portfolio built over the year.
Submission:
Each learner is given a personal Google Drive folder with templates. You can:
Use the templates provided
Submit in your own format (e.g. journals, presentations, artwork, recordings)
Acceptable Evidence Includes:
Written work: session plans, risk assessments, reflections
Photos, videos, creative work
Zoom recordings of discussions with your tutor
Alternative formats that clearly meet assessment criteria
You can read the official unit breakdowns here:
Feedback & Sign-off:
Unlimited submissions and feedback are included
Once a piece of work meets requirements, it is signed off
Learners can submit work any time during the course
Practical Skills:
Some practical elements (e.g. fire lighting, tool use, knots) must be demonstrated. This usually happens during in-person days, but video evidence is also accepted if needed.
Final Deadline:
Portfolios are due 12 months from course start
Extensions are available:
12 months additional time
£200 extension fee
Course Fee & What’s Included
Total Cost: £999
This includes:
10 days of face-to-face training
Access to all templates and materials
Ongoing tutor support
Optional site visit
All feedback and assessment
Learners arrange their own First Aid and DBS check.
Payment Options:
Payment is due in full at booking. However, the website offers Klarna, ClearPay, and other payment options to spread the cost.
Discounts:
We offer discounts for:
Minority group applicants
Learners topping up from a previous Level 2 course
Contact us to check your eligibility.
Refund Policy:
Our full cancellation and refund terms are included in our Terms & Conditions, linked during the booking process.
How to Apply
Visit our website at children-of-the-forest.com and head to the Level 3 course booking section.
Spaces are limited to 10–12 participants for each cohort. Bookings remain open until the course is full or begins in September 2025.
Discovery Calls:
Want to chat before committing? You can book a free discovery call on the course page. It’s a great way to explore if this path is right for you.
What Happens After Booking:
You’ll receive an automated confirmation email
Follow-up emails will guide you through next steps and preparation
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