Level 3 forest school

Level 3 Forest School Leader Training

Location: Greenslate Community Farm, Wigan
Awarding Body: AIM Qualifications
Delivered by: My Outdoor Classroom CIC/Beautiful New Beginnings 

Course Overview
Our Level 3 Certificate in Forest School Programme Leadership is the nationally recognised qualification that enables you to become a fully qualified Forest School Leader. This in-depth course is ideal for practitioners who want to design, deliver, and lead Forest School programmes with confidence, creativity, and a deep understanding of child-led outdoor learning.

Greenslate Community Farm provides the perfect backdrop for immersive, nature-based training—combining sustainable farming, wildlife, and real-life Forest School settings.

Who is this course for?

• Teachers, early years practitioners, and educators

• Outdoor learning professionals and Forest School assistants

• Youth workers, playworkers, and nature connection advocates

• Anyone passionate about leading outdoor education and supporting holistic child development

What You’ll Learn:

• Forest School philosophy, principles, and child development theories

• Planning, delivering, and evaluating a full Forest School programme

• Sustainable use of woodlands and ecological impact awareness

• Risk assessment and risk–benefit analysis

• Practical skills: safe tool use, fire lighting, shelter building, knot work, and more

• Managing groups outdoors, supporting emotional resilience and wellbeing

Course Structure & Duration:

• Blended format: Face-to-face training at Greenslate Farm + online support

• 10 in-person days one week initial training and assessment week. You must attend both weeks to complete the qualification.

• Week one – Monday 17th – 21st of November 2025 9:30-5pm 

• Week two – Monday 20th – Friday 25th of September 9:30-5pm 

• Portfolio and practical work to be completed over 9–12 months, easy to use online learning platform.

• Work-based learning: You must run a 6-session Forest School programme as part of the qualification, you will need suitable insurance/DBS/equipment/access to site and groups. (We can support you with this).

Entry Requirements:

• Aged 19 or over

• Experience working with children or young people

• Access to a suitable natural site for running sessions

• Valid Level 3 Paediatric First Aid certificate (or willingness to complete it during the course)

• Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check

What You’ll Receive:

• Level 3 Certificate in Forest School Programme Leadership (AIM Accredited)

• Personalised tutor support and mentoring

• Access to tools and hands-on experience in a working Forest School setting

• Practical training in a real-life community environment at Greenslate Farm

Investment:

Cost: £900
(Payment plans may be available. Please contact us for full details.)

Why Train with Us at Greenslate?

• Real-world experience: Learn in an established Forest School and working community farm

• Community roots: Delivered by experienced tutors, committed to inclusive, nature-based education

• Supportive environment: Small group sizes, skilled mentors, and ongoing guidance throughout your learning journey

Ready to Lead?

Whether you’re looking to transform your teaching practice or start a new career in outdoor education, Level 3 Forest School training is your next step.