Forest School Leader Training Courses

Kent High Weald Partnership is a long-standing champion of Forest School and its inspirational approach to learning, wellbeing and connection with the natural world.

We offer nationally accredited Forest School training for prospective Forest School leaders, set within the beautiful woodland environment of Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, on the Kent and Sussex border.

Our courses are delivered one day a week over a number of weeks, rather than as an intensive block. Students have told us they value this approach because it gives them time to reflect, practise new skills and build confidence between sessions.

Training is delivered outdoors and is highly practical, with no online workshops. We provide the learning materials needed for the course, including templates for risk assessments, ecological impact assessments, site management plans and session planning. Students also receive a detailed course handbook covering the main taught elements of the qualification.

To book a place, please complete the relevant booking form below and email it to cmp@khwp.org.uk.
You can also contact us at this address with any questions. Please include a telephone number if you would like a member of the team to call you back.

Why Train at Bedgebury?

Set within the stunning landscape of Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, our training offers a truly immersive woodland learning experience.

Surrounded by a diverse collection of trees from around the world, Bedgebury provides the perfect setting to explore Forest School principles in practice. The site offers a rich variety of natural spaces to inspire learning, creativity and connection to nature throughout the seasons.

Level 2 Forest School Leader

Course length: 5 days
Time: 10:00am–5:30pm
Cost: £550

The course also includes a one-hour webinar on structuring and answering written submissions. Date to be confirmed.

The course is run outdoors in our Forest School setting, with access to covered areas, toilets and washing facilities. We have procedures in place to deliver all elements of the course safely. If you have any concerns, please contact us before booking.

There is also the option to top up from Level 2 to Level 3. Please contact us for further details.

Please complete the editable Word booking form electronically and return it by email. We are unable to accept handwritten or scanned forms. Please clearly state which course you are applying for when submitting your form.

Level 3 Forest School Leader

Course length: 8 days
Time: 10:00am–5:30pm
Cost: £995

The course is run outdoors in our Forest School setting, with access to covered areas, toilets and washing facilities. We have procedures in place to deliver all elements of the course safely. If you have any concerns, please contact us before booking.

Please complete the editable Word booking form electronically and return it by email. We are unable to accept handwritten or scanned forms. Please clearly state which course you are applying for when submitting your form.

About Our Training and Trainers

We bring the same ethos to our training as we do to our Forest School practice: learner-centred, supportive, practical and rooted in a strong sense of community.

Time is dedicated within the training to looking at the portfolio in detail, helping students understand how to structure their written work and meet the requirements of the qualification.

Our training is fully outdoors, highly practical and designed to build both confidence and competence.

Trainers are available for 12 months from the end of the training for consultation, support and feedback.

Our lead trainer has been delivering Forest School since 2012, working with a wide range of groups including children, young people, families, adults and people with SEND.

We can also deliver bespoke Forest School training on school grounds. Please contact us for more information about this offer.

What Our Students Say About Us

‘Straightforward and comprehensive training with a knowledgeable leader’

‘Such a good community spirit. Loved the cooking and sharing. All felt supportive informative and holistic’

‘Bright Sparks offer Community, Friendly approachable trainers (with) a wealth of knowledge and passion about Forest School’

‘Very inspiring, fun relaxed environment leads to positive engagement with learning’

‘Amazing! This qualification has improved my confidence, quality of life and future career prospects’

‘Thank you for this fantastic opportunity to let me learn in this fabulous environment’

‘Academic side very well balanced with practical side. A very well thought out and delivered course’

‘The most fun I’ve had training, ever!’

Click here to see some lovely images of our training over the last few years.