Forest School Self-Paced Leadership Program

Fully online program with flexible in-person practical training options

Developed and led by experienced Forest School leaders

Designed to enhance your skills and elevate your professional standing

Gain practical, real-world expertise from industry experts

Sign up today

An in-depth, self-paced Forest School training program designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to create and lead meaningful outdoor learning experiences. This comprehensive course combines both theoretical knowledge and practical insights to support you in setting up and running your own Forest School or nature-based program.

Across six detailed units and exclusive extended content, you will gain expertise in sustainability, outdoor leadership, safeguarding, practical tool use, and child-led learning—adapted for both global and desert environments.

With 12 months access and optional in-person training in Dubai, this version of the course provides full access to all learning materials for independent study. Participants can explore the content at their own pace; however, it does not include one-on-one support, feedback, live sessions, or accreditation, making it ideal for those who prefer to learn independently and apply the knowledge in their own context.

Course Overview:

  • Format: Self-paced online course (content-only, no live sessions or support)

  • Duration: Up to 12 months access

 Learn Anywhere, Anytime:

  • Designed for participants in the UAE and globally, this flexible program allows you to learn from anywhere, while offering the opportunity to attend practical, in-person training sessions in Dubai.

Learn from the Pioneers

  • This course is led by the founders of the first Forest School in the region, bringing deep, hands-on experience tailored to the cultural and environmental context of this part of the world.

Full App Integration

  • Access your course anytime, anywhere—on your phone, tablet, or laptop.

Packed with Practical Guidance:

  • Gain access to real-world tools, templates, and guidance to help you:

  • Set up your own Forest School or nature-based business

  • Design safe, engaging, and child-led outdoor sessions

  • Navigate regulations and build a supportive community

 Learn at Your Own Pace:

  • Enjoy up to 12 months of access, allowing you to complete the course at a pace that fits your schedule.

Course Structure – 6 Comprehensive Units

Each unit blends theory with practical application:

Unit 1 – Nature & Sustainability

  • Ecosystems & biodiversity

  • Site creation & management

  • Conservation & sustainable practices

Unit 2 – Practical Skills

  • Safe tool use

  • Fire lighting & outdoor cooking

  • Shelter building

  • Nature-based projects

Unit 3 – Learning Through Nature

  • Forest School philosophy

  • Child-led learning approaches

  • Practical teaching strategies

Unit 4 – Policies & Procedures

  • Safeguarding essentials

  • Health & safety

  • Risk assessment and documentation

Unit 5 – Session Leadership

  • Plan, lead, and evaluate 6 Forest School sessions

  • Build confidence through real-world delivery

Unit 6 – Extended Content

  • Creating a Forest School from scratch

  • Forest School for homeschoolers

  • Mindfulness & Forest Bathing

  • Video-based learning (no written assignments)

What’s Included

  • Full online training program

  • App & multi-device access

  • Session templates, tool guides, and planning documents

  • 12 months access

  • No assignments required

Investment & Enrollment

  • Course Fee: 1750

  • Optional Practical Training (2 days): + AED 2,500

Contact

Extra Perks & Exclusive Content:

  • Learn how to create a Forest School—even in limited spaces

  • Access a full session planning guide with hundreds of activity ideas

  • Tool construction and progression guides

  • Mindfulness & Forest Bathing practices

  • Printable templates, kit lists, and learner-led project plans

  • Dedicated guidance for homeschooling and alternative education

More Than a Course:

  • This is more than a training—it’s a movement to reconnect children with nature, wherever you are.

Sign up for the upcoming course

MEET THE TRAINERS

  • DAVID FISHER

    David, the driving force behind Rooted Learning, has established himself as a highly regarded Forest School trainer and leader, both in the UK and internationally. With over a decade of teaching experience, David is a qualified teacher who understands firsthand the demands, challenges, and rewards of setting up Forest School programs in areas with limited resources and access to nature. Despite the obstacles, David firmly believes that the challenges are outweighed by the profound positive impact that the Forest School approach can have on learners of all ages. Motivated by his passion for empowering others, David has designed this course to share his extensive knowledge and practical ideas with all participants.

  • SHERIN BODEKJI WANES

    Sherin, the visionary founder of Natura Tribe, a trailblazing nature-inspired playgroup in the UAE. As the first Forest School Practitioner in the region, Sherin has been organizing and leading nature and forest sessions for the past 5 years. She exudes a deep love for nature and is driven by her desire to connect individuals with their environments. Together, David and Sherin bring a wealth of expertise and passion to this course, ensuring an enriching learning experience for all. Sherin is adding her local expertise to the course and will be leading the practical sessions on ground in UAE.