Things to consider to when choosing a FS trainer
Training bodies
In the UK there are many Forest School training providers, running training programmes under different awarding bodies – OCN, BTEC, NCFE to name a few. We recommend that you research potential training providers thoroughly.
Recommendations
If you do not know of anyone personally who has done Forest School Training, go onto some forums and ask about training providers: maybe ask about some of the things outlined below…
After-training support
For many the training is the easy bit; completing the portfolio is more difficult – whether that be due to time constraints or, for some, lack of support from trainers, it can be a problem.
How will you be supported after training to complete your portfolio?
Completion rates
Contact the training company and ask how many people pass their course as a percentage, and what support they offer to help with completion. What is the support in addition to contact time with the trainer?
Location
Is the course local? Are the people attending local to you? This can be a great support when trying to complete your portfolio as you can meet up. Also, after the course is finished, you’ll have created a local support network as you develop your Forest School. How well tied-in is the course provider to local support networks?
Experience
What experience does the trainer running the course have of delivering Forest School to a variety of groups over a sustained period of time? How long ago did they last deliver a full programme to children?
Forest School Leader Training video
The BBC's One Show presenter Mike Dilger goes to the woods to talk to Forest School students about what they have learnt on the Leaders training course and how they will apply this with their groups. (6mins 46)
Becoming a Forest School trainer
There are a few different routes available to become a trainer and you will need to satisfy the requirements of the awarding body to set up independently or do a Level 4 qualification, which should also require that candidates have the correct experience and qualifications. (Be aware that different companies have different tie-ins once you have completed the Level 4 qualification).
The providers listed below are ones that Muddy Faces has an active relationship with, sharing resources and information. There are many more trainers available and we recommend you do your own research and checks as mentioned above.
