The AIM Qualifications Level 1 Award in Forest School Ethos and Principles provides learners with an introduction to the Forest School ethos and learning in the outdoors. It includes methods of identifying woodland species and how play can assist in Forest School activities.
Level 1 training is a great place to start if Forest School is a new concept for you. This training shows how the principles of Forest School can be incorporated into educational and everyday settings.
This qualification is designed to enable learners to develop an understanding of the principles and ethos of Forest School. It will prepare learners for further study and employment in the outdoors and to progress on to the level 2 Award for Forest School Assistants.
Please note:
- There are no entry requirements for this qualification.
- The minimum age for a Level 1 Forest School Ethos and Principles is 14. (This is a Department for Education Requirement).
- Learners will be required to attend 2 full days of face-to-face training.
- Learners will be required to attend a Forest School session with a qualified Level 3 leader. 25 hours
Components covered
Understanding the Forest School approach to learning.
You will develop an awareness of the Forest School principles and how learning occurs through play and includes creativity and independent learning. We will look at how these impacts on self-esteem, confidence, emotional intelligence, resilience and spiritual development.
Be able to participate in Forest School experiences.
You will take part in a range of activities including using tools, making craft items, building fires and making shelters.
Understand methods of identification of woodland species.
You will explore methods of identifying species and have a go at finding wildlife, flora and fauna and identifying it yourself.
Understand how Forest School impacts on the woodland environment.
You will discover how impacts relate to the flora and fauna and discuss the type and level of impact and any mitigations that can be made.
Understand hazards at Forest School.
You will gain an understanding of the hazards and associated risks that maybe found at a Forest School. We will discuss possible control measures and how this could be written into a risk assessment.
Assessment method
Portfolio of evidence to be submitted and practical elements signed off during the training.
All work can be submitted via our online training platform or in a physical folder via post.
As part of this qualification, you must also observe one Forest School session run by a qualified Level 3 Forest School Programme Leader.
Example Timetable
The course involves two days of face to face training. During these two days you will be given all of the information and skills to complete your portfolio of evidence.
Please note the qualification takes approximately two-three months to complete from the first day of training.
What's Included
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Expert Tuition -
Free Wi-Fi -
Hot and Cold Drinks -
In Course Transport
Handouts and a folder which will help you complete your portfolio.
Online resources are also available.
Before You Attend
A lot of the course is run outdoors so please bring appropriate clothing for the time of year. Walking or strong sturdy footwear are required. Please bring:
- Camera
- Notebook
- Pens and pencils
- Insect repellent
- Water bottle
- Lunch
Opportunities to attend this course
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Tue 29, July 2025 09:00 - Wed 30, July 2025 17:00
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Wed 08, October 2025 09:00 - Thu 09, October 2025 17:00
