Outdoor learning: helping young people thrive in the National Forest

The Forest’s ambition is for every early years, primary and secondary setting to take part in outdoor learning, and many schools are already embracing the opportunity. Over 90% of primary schools now deliver regular outdoor or Forest School sessions, while secondary students are exploring woodland management as a pathway into future careers.

The Forest’s ambition is for every early years, primary and secondary setting to take part in outdoor learning, and many schools are already embracing the opportunity. Over 90% of primary schools now deliver regular outdoor or Forest School sessions, while secondary students are exploring woodland management as a pathway into future careers.

One specialist 3 -19 provision shows just how transformative this can be. Their 3.5‑acre woodland wraps around the entire school, giving every learner access to an inclusive outdoor space. With support from National Forest grants and bursaries, 16 staff practitioners have been trained, ensuring outdoor learning is embedded across departments and available all year round.

The impact is clear. Learners describe feeling calmer, more focused and more connected when working outdoors, whether pruning trees, identifying species or learning to use woodland tools safely. The Level 1 Forestry in the Community qualification, delivered in partnership with the National Forest, has opened new doors for students who previously struggled with attendance, giving them a recognised route into college and a sense of pride in caring for their woodland.

Behind this progress is dedicated support from the National Forest’s Outdoor Learning Officer, who helps schools with training, funding, resources and access to local green spaces. For many, the first step can feel daunting, but the outcomes are life‑changing for the pupils they support.

Outdoor learning is becoming a defining part of education in the National Forest - inclusive, hands‑on and rooted in experiences that help young people thrive.

If you’d like to explore outdoor learning opportunities for your school, you can get in touch with our team for advice, or learn more about supporting outdoor learning.