What Makes a Good Forest School Leader?
Outdoor learning continues to grow in importance across UK schools, offering pupils meaningful opportunities to develop confidence, resilience and a deeper connection with the natural world. At the heart of any successful outdoor provision is a skilled and reflective Forest School leader.
But what exactly makes a good Forest School leader in today’s educational landscape?
A Clear Understanding of the Forest School Ethos
A strong Forest School leader goes beyond simply taking lessons outdoors. They understand that Forest School is a child-centred, long-term approach rooted in exploration, play and supported risk-taking.
Effective leaders:
Prioritise learner-led experiences
Encourage curiosity rather than direct outcomes
Value the process of learning over the final result
This ethos aligns closely with structured support platforms such as PE Pro andOutdoor Pro, which help teachers confidently deliver both physical education and outdoor learning in a progressive, curriculum-linked way.
Strong Knowledge of Outdoor Pedagogy
A good leader combines practical outdoor skills with sound educational practice. They are able to:
Link activities to the National Curriculum
Adapt sessions for different abilities, including SEND pupils
Facilitate cross-curricular learning (science, PSHE, literacy, etc.)
Using tools such as Outdoor Pro can support this by providing ready-made, curriculum-aligned outdoor lesson plans and video guidance, ensuring consistency and progression across year groups.
Confidence in Risk Management
Risk is an essential part of Forest School, but it must be managed effectively. Strong leaders:
Carry out thorough risk assessments
Teach children how to assess risk themselves
Create a safe environment for activities such as tool use and fire lighting
This balance of safety and challenge is what allows pupils to develop resilience and independence.
Excellent Behaviour and Relationship Skills
Forest School thrives on strong relationships. A good leader:
Builds trust and respect with pupils
Uses positive behaviour strategies
Encourages teamwork and communication
Outdoor environments often bring out different behaviours in pupils, and skilled leaders know how to channel this positively.
A Commitment to Reflection and Development
High-quality Forest School leaders are always learning. They:
Reflect on sessions to improve future delivery
Seek professional development opportunities
Stay up to date with best practice in outdoor learning
Platforms like PE Pro (https://www.peproapp.com/) and Outdoor Pro (https://www.peproapp.com/outdoor-pro) support this ongoing development by giving teachers access to expert-led content, structured planning and assessment tools.
Passion for the Outdoors
Perhaps most importantly, great Forest School leaders have a genuine enthusiasm for the natural world. This passion is infectious and helps pupils to:
Develop a connection with nature
Improve their wellbeing
Engage more deeply in learning
Supporting Outdoor Learning in Your School
Creating a high-quality outdoor provision does not happen by chance. It requires:
Clear progression
Confident staff
Access to the right resources
By integrating tools such as Outdoor Pro, schools can transform their grounds into effective outdoor classrooms, while PE Pro ensures that physical education remains structured, engaging and inclusive.
Final Thoughts
A good Forest School leader is not defined by a single skill, but by a combination of pedagogical understanding, practical expertise and a passion for child development.
With the right support, training and resources, every school can build a thriving outdoor learning culture—one that benefits both pupils and staff alike.
Explore how your school can enhance its provision with PE Pro and Outdoor Pro today.