Our Forest School & Outdoor Learning for Schools
Natural Networks CIC provides child-led, SEND-inclusive Forest School and outdoor learning programmes for schools across Bristol and surrounding areas.
What We Offer
Our sessions combine child-led exploration and outdoor play with experiences including:
Campfire cooking • Fire lighting • Whittling & tool work • Woodcraft • Den building • Nature & conservation • Gardening • Natural crafts • Team games • Adventure play
We offer one-off sessions, progressive Forest School programmes, bespoke outdoor learning days and 1:1 / small-group outdoor interventions.
Progressive Forest School Programmes
Our programmes give pupils time to build relationships with practitioners and become increasingly comfortable and confident in the outdoor environment.
Early sessions meet pupils where they are, using play, exploration, creativity and achievable activities to build engagement.
As pupils’ confidence, self-esteem and independence develop, we gradually introduce greater choice, challenge and responsibility. Pupils can progress into skills such as tool use, whittling, fire lighting, outdoor cooking, shelter building and environmental projects.
Alongside practical skills, pupils have opportunities to develop teamwork, communication, resilience, problem-solving and an understanding of appropriate risk.
Built Around Your Pupils
Our approach is SEND-inclusive, recognising that pupils engage, communicate and learn in different ways.
We work with teachers and support staff to understand the group and shape programmes around pupils’ strengths, interests, needs and individual starting points. Where appropriate, this can include individual targets and EHCP outcomes.
Our practitioners observe and reflect throughout, allowing programmes to adapt and evolve around pupils’ progress, interests and emerging needs.
Sessions can also incorporate projects that improve the school environment, including gardening, growing, wildlife habitats, bug hotels and practical site projects.
Forest School & Outdoor Learning Days
We offer bespoke full-day experiences, planned with teachers around the needs of pupils and the aims of the day.
Days can focus on, or combine:
Forest School skills • Curriculum learning • Team building • Organised games & challenges • Outdoor play • Nature & conservation • Wellbeing & relationships
1:1 / Small-Group Outdoor Interventions
We provide 1:1 and small-group outdoor interventions for pupils who may benefit from additional support outside the classroom.
Working with school staff, interventions can be shaped around pupils’ individual needs, interests, targets and relevant EHCP outcomes.
Using consistent relationships, practical activities and time outdoors, interventions can provide opportunities to develop confidence, self-esteem, engagement, communication, emotional regulation, independence and practical skills.
Progress can be observed, reflected upon and fed back to school staff, allowing interventions to develop in response to the pupil.
Where We Deliver
We can bring Forest School and outdoor learning directly to your school, making use of existing school grounds and outdoor spaces.
Natural Networks also works across a number of established outdoor delivery sites. Schools can choose to bring pupils away from the school environment for their sessions or programme, providing access to a dedicated outdoor setting and a different learning experience.
Use of an external delivery site typically involves an additional £100–£200 site hire charge, depending on the venue and length of booking.
Our Approach
Child-led • SEND-inclusive • Playful • Progressive • Practical • Reflective
Pricing
One-off Forest School Session — £150
Up to 3 hours • 1 practitioner
6-Week Progressive Forest School Programme — £780
Six 3-hour sessions • £130 per session • 1 practitioner
Forest School & Outdoor Learning Day — £250
Bespoke full-day programme • 1 practitioner
1:1 / Small-Group Outdoor Interventions — Price on enquiry
Bespoke programmes designed around pupil needs and outcomes
Forest School groups can accommodate up to 16 pupils, working alongside appropriate school TAs/support staff.
Standard equipment and resources are included. External venue hire is charged separately, typically £100–£200 depending on the site and booking. Additional costs may apply for specialist materials, larger site-development projects or significant travel.
Natural Networks CIC