The AIM Qualifications Level 2 Award for Forest School Assistants provides learners with the skills required to support Forest School Leaders when supporting Forest School programmes.
This qualification is designed to enable learners to develop an understanding of the principles and ethos of Forest School.
The AIM Qualifications suite of Forest School qualifications has been developed with the support of the Forest School Association and specialists in Forest School delivery and training.
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. It is designed to meet the needs of school and college staff, youth workers, parent helpers, students, and others in providing preparation for further development and study to becoming a Forest School Leader.
Parts of this course will contribute towards a level 3 qualification if you wish to progress in the future (Note – time limits do apply to this).
Learners must complete a total of 7 credits to achieve this qualification.
Components covered
Supporting a Forest School Programme: Learning and Development (Level 2 level)
Learners will gain introductory knowledge and understanding of the Forest School pedagogy and approach to Learning and Development. They will understand the Forest School Ethos, principles and holistic approach to learning and development. You will understand your role as a Forest School assistant and learn how to reflect on your own Forest School Practice.
Supporting a Forest School Programme: Practical Skills (Level 3 level)
Learners will gain practical skills to be able to support on a Forest School programme.
Understand the structure and ecology of a woodland. Learn how to identify a range of flora and fauna and understand why this is important. Understand the role of risk benefit assessments and how to carry them out. Understand how to look after the biodiversity of your forest school site. Learn how to use hand tools, build shelters, light and safely manage fires, use ropes and knots and build shelters.
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 assist with three Forest School sessions run by a qualified Level 3 Forest School Programme Leader.
Trainers
Our Forest School training team are very experienced and have spent many years working in the outdoor environment in a range of settings and scenarios. We have been delivering Forest School training at our Bishops Wood Centre since 2007, training many people from across the UK and from Europe.
Our trainers are available to offer support throughout the course and can be contacted by email or phone to answer your questions or support you further if needed.
Example Timetable
The course involves 4 days of face to face training. During these 4 days you will be given all of the information and skills to complete your portfolio of evidence.
Please note the qualification takes approximately 4-6 months to complete from the first day of training.
What's Included
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Expert Tuition -
Hot and Cold Drinks
Handouts and a folder which will help you complete your portfolio.
Online resources are also available.
Before You Attend
Prior to the training you will need to complete 3 forms and return them to Bishops Wood Centre for checks.
- Learner registration form.
- Medical consent form.
- Photographic consent form.
In order to be registered on the course you must provide official photographic ID, such as a driving licience or passport to confirm your full name. You will need to bring this with you on the first day of training.
A lot of the course is run outdoors so please bring appropriate clothing for the time of year.
Please ensure you have with you:
- Walking or strong sturdy footwear are required.
- Photographic ID for day 1
- Camera
- Notebook
- Pens and pencils
- Insect repellent
- Water bottle
- Lunch
- Any medication required
Opportunities to attend this course
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Wed 22, January 2025 09:00 - Wed 12, February 2025 17:00
The Level 2 training takes place over four days. The dates for this course are: Wednesday 22nd and 29th January, and 5th and 12th February. This course is non-residential.
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Tue 28, January 2025 09:00 - Wed 05, February 2025 17:00
The Level 2 training takes place over four days. The dates for this course are: Tuesday 28th January - Wednesday 29th January and Tuesday 4th February - Wednesday 5th February. This course is non-residential.
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Tue 29, July 2025 09:00 - Fri 01, August 2025 17:00
The Level 2 training takes place over four days. The dates for this course are: Tuesday 29th July, Wednesday 30th July, Thursday 31st July and Friday 1st August. This course is non-residential.
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Wed 08, October 2025 09:00 - Thu 16, October 2025 17:00
The Level 2 training takes place over four days. The dates for this course are: Wednesday 8th October - Thursday 9th October and Wednesday 15th October - Thursday 16th October. This course is non-residential.