Questions for Forest School Providers

Forest School Interview Kit

Create a personalized list of questions to ask potential Forest School providers based on your family's priorities and concerns.

Select Your Priority Areas

Choose the areas that matter most to you when evaluating Forest School providers. You can select multiple categories and set different priority levels.

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Qualifications & Experience
Leader training, certifications, and experience levels
๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ
Safety & Risk Management
Insurance, first aid, emergency procedures, and risk assessments
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Educational Philosophy
Child-led learning, developmental approach, and Forest School principles
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Environment & Resources
Site quality, natural materials, tools, and outdoor facilities
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Practical Considerations
Schedule, costs, communication, and logistics
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Child Development
Individual needs, progress tracking, and developmental support

๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip

Consider setting at least 2-3 categories as "High Priority" to ensure you get comprehensive questions for your most important concerns. You can always adjust priorities and regenerate your question list.

Choosing the Right Forest School

Key considerations when evaluating Forest School providers

Key Areas to Evaluate

Qualifications & Experience

Ensure proper training and expertise

  • Level 3 Forest School qualification
  • First aid training and DBS checks

Safety & Risk Management

Protocols for keeping children safe

  • Risk assessments and emergency procedures
  • Appropriate adult-to-child ratios

Educational Philosophy

Approach to learning and development

  • Child-led learning approach
  • Balance of structure and exploration

Practical Interview Tips

  • Visit in person - Observe the site and see how sessions are run
  • Bring your child - See how they respond to the environment
  • Ask for references - Speak to other parents about their experiences
  • Trust your instincts - The right provider should make you feel confident and comfortable

Remember: A good Forest School should welcome your questions and be transparent about their practices, qualifications, and approach.