50 Forest School Ideas – PDF Download

Inspire outdoor learning with creative, hands-on activities for all seasons

This beautifully designed, easy-to-use PDF is packed with 50 engaging Forest School games and activities to spark curiosity, teamwork, and nature connection. Whether you’re a Forest School leader, teacher, early years educator, or outdoor enthusiast, this guide is your go-to resource for planning fun, purposeful sessions in the wild.

What’s Inside:

• Nature awareness and sensory games

• Team-building challenges

• Tool use and bushcraft ideas

• Seasonal and weather-proof activities

• Animal-inspired play and movement

• Creative nature-based crafts

Perfect for:

• Forest School sessions

• Outdoor classrooms

• Camps and nature clubs

• Homeschooling in the wild

Instant digital download – print it or use it on your device.

Bring learning to life outdoors — one game at a time.

Discover the Magic of Forest School: What It Is and Why It Matters

As more educators and parents seek meaningful, child-centred alternatives to traditional classrooms, Forest School continues to rise in popularity across the UK and beyond. But what exactly is it, and why are so many choosing to embrace learning in the great outdoors?

In this post, we’ll explore what Forest School is, the key benefits it offers children, and how you can get started — whether you’re an educator, parent, or simply curious about outdoor learning.

What Is Forest School?

Forest School is a learner-centred approach that takes education outdoors, typically into woodlands or other natural settings. It provides regular, hands-on experiences that help children develop confidence, independence, and a deep connection with nature.

Rather than following a rigid curriculum, Forest School encourages play, exploration, and supported risk-taking under the guidance of qualified practitioners. It’s rooted in Scandinavian outdoor education models and is now widely practiced throughout the UK.

Learn more from the official Forest School Association — the UK’s professional body for Forest School.

Key Benefits of Forest School

Numerous studies have shown that nature-based education supports a child’s mental, emotional, and physical development. Here are some of the core benefits:

• Improved self-esteem and confidence

• Enhanced problem-solving and critical thinking

• Better physical health through active play

• Stronger social and communication skills

• Greater emotional resilience and independence

• Deeper environmental awareness and care for nature

According to WWF UK, time in nature has also been shown to reduce anxiety and improve attention in children — outcomes more important than ever.

Forest School vs. Outdoor Play

While both involve being outside, Forest School is a structured and progressive educational approach — not just playtime in the woods. Sessions are led by trained facilitators who observe, support, and reflect on children’s learning journeys.

For example, a Forest School session might involve:

• Identifying trees and insects

• Building shelters using natural materials

• Practising tool safety and basic bushcraft

• Storytelling around a campfire

These activities are designed to develop both practical and personal skills over time.

How Forest School Aligns with Education Goals

Outdoor learning isn’t separate from academics — it enhances it. Forest School supports many core areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stage learning objectives.

BBC Bitesize has explored outdoor learning benefits as part of child development, especially in areas like communication, social development, and understanding the world.

Who Can Benefit from Forest School?

Forest School is suitable for children of all ages and abilities — from toddlers in early years settings to secondary school pupils and even young adults with additional needs.

You don’t need access to a deep forest either. Many sessions are held in school grounds, local parks, and National Trust properties. Here’s a guide to finding local outdoor spaces via the National Trust.

How to Get Started

Thinking about bringing Forest School to your home, school, or community?

• Take a Forest School qualification course to lead sessions safely and effectively.

• Start with simple resources, like our downloadable 50 Forest School Ideas — ideal for quick inspiration and planning.

• Partner with parents or outdoor organisations to build community support.

• Observe and adapt — the learner always leads the journey.

You can also explore accredited training through the Forest School Association.