A Guide to Becoming a Forest School Teacher: Nurturing Nature-Based Education

As the importance of outdoor education continues to gain recognition, the role of forest school teachers has become increasingly valued. These educators play a vital role in fostering children's connection to nature, facilitating hands-on learning experiences, and nurturing holistic development in outdoor settings. If you're passionate about nature-based education and are considering a career as a forest school teacher, this blog post is for you. We'll explore the steps to becoming a forest school teacher and the skills and qualifications needed to succeed in this rewarding field.

Gain Experience in Outdoor Education:

• The first step to becoming a forest school teacher is to gain experience in outdoor education and nature-based learning environments. Seek opportunities to work or volunteer in forest schools, nature centres, outdoor education programs, or environmental organisations. Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, gardening, and nature exploration to deepen your connection to nature and develop practical skills in outdoor leadership and facilitation.
  
  

Complete Forest School Training and Certification:

• Forest school training and certification programs provide specialised knowledge and skills needed to effectively teach in outdoor settings. Look for accredited forest school training providers that offer comprehensive programs covering topics such as child development, nature-based pedagogy, risk management, outdoor safety, and curriculum development. Completing a recognized forest school training course will equip you with the expertise and credentials needed to work as a forest school teacher.
  
  

Obtain Relevant Qualifications:

• While specific qualifications may vary depending on your location and the requirements of employers, obtaining relevant qualifications in education, environmental science, outdoor education, or related fields can enhance your credentials as a forest school teacher. Consider pursuing a degree, diploma, or certification in early childhood education, environmental education, outdoor leadership, or a related field to deepen your understanding of child development, educational theory, and environmental science.
  
  

Develop Teaching Skills and Pedagogy:

• Effective teaching in forest school settings requires a unique set of skills and pedagogical approaches tailored to the outdoor environment. Develop your teaching skills and pedagogy by attending workshops, conferences, and professional development opportunities focused on outdoor education, experiential learning, and nature-based pedagogy. Learn how to facilitate inquiry-based learning, hands-on exploration, and reflective practice in outdoor settings, and adapt your teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs and interests of children in the forest classroom.
  
  

Build a Portfolio and Network:

• As you gain experience and expertise in forest school education, build a portfolio showcasing your qualifications, training, teaching experiences, and projects related to outdoor education. Network with other forest school teachers, educators, and professionals in the field to exchange ideas, share resources, and access job opportunities. Join professional associations, online communities, and networking groups focused on outdoor education and nature-based learning to stay connected and informed about developments in the field.
  
  

Seek Employment Opportunities:

• Once you feel confident in your skills and qualifications as a forest school teacher, start exploring employment opportunities in forest schools, nature-based preschools, outdoor education centres, environmental organisations, or schools with outdoor learning programs. Research job openings, attend job fairs, and network with potential employers to find positions that align with your interests, values, and career goals. Be prepared to demonstrate your passion for nature-based education and your ability to create enriching learning experiences for children in outdoor settings during the interview process.

Becoming a forest school teacher is a rewarding and fulfilling journey that requires dedication, passion, and a commitment to nature-based education. By gaining experience in outdoor education, completing forest school training and certification, obtaining relevant qualifications, developing teaching skills and pedagogy, building a portfolio and network, and seeking employment opportunities, you can embark on a career that allows you to inspire children, connect them with nature, and make a positive impact on their lives and the environment.