We are pleased to announce that Qualifications Network UK (QNUK) has gained FSA support for their Forest School qualifications.
This brings the number of FSA recognised Awarding Organisations to nine.
Forest School trainers work through OFQUAL recognised Awarding Bodies. The FSA specifically supports the Awarding Bodies listed below.
If you want recognition as a Forest School provider please ensure that your trainer is working with one of these Awarding Organisations. All FSA Endorsed Forest School Trainers offer eligible courses.
FOR THE LATEST LIST SEE HERE
Agored Cymru (Qualifications in Wales framework)
Newbattle Abbey College (Scottish Credit and Qualifcations Framework)
Open College Network West Midlands
Within each awarding body there will be a number of different levels of Forest School qualification, from level 1 to level 3.
The qualifications below were placed on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) in 2018. Other awarding bodies are welcome to clone the curriculum and criteria. The FSA provide a letter of support to those awarding bodies who will commit to cloning the whole qualification as outlined in the RQF along with all the recommendations. The FSA will continue to work with OCNWM and an Awarding Organisation Forum to review and develop the Forest School qualifications.
Level 1 is an introduction to Forest School and as such does not equip you to run Forest School. It gives you an idea of the principles and practice but does not equip you to lead a group. People who attend this are generally volunteer helpers, managers who don’t want to practise but need to know what the principles and elements of practise entail, and people who wish to dip their toes in before committing to becoming recognised leaders. As such, it is a short course. (30 hours and worth 3 credits.)
Level 2 is designed to qualify a learner to become a Forest School assistant, enabling them to take a proactive role in helping a Forest School practitioner plan and deliver a Forest School programme and supporting the learners. This course is generally approximately 60 hours and worth 6 credits.
Level 3 is designed to qualify the trainee to become a Forest School Leader,able to set up and run a Forest School programme. Level 3 covers how to facilitate groups in a learner-centred way, and how to manage a Forest School site sustainably. It also covers the practical skills required of a Forest School Leader. Generally this course is approximately 180 hours and worth 18 credits.
The FSA is the gatekeeper for three qualifications.
• Open College Network West Midlands Level 1 Award in Forest School Ethos and Principles – 603/2336/X
• Open College Network West Midlands Level 2 Award for Forest School Assistants – 603/2404/1
• Open College Network West Midlands Level 3 Certificate for Forest School Leaders – 603/2406/5
