About Us
Branch Out
Forest School
Branch Out Forest School has an ethos of building relationships and communication by using the natural world. We use nature to develop personal, social and emotional skills for all ages and abilities.
At Branch Out Forest School, we provide a safe, exciting, and hands-on alternative to the increasing reliance on technology for learning, recreation, and social interaction. In today’s digital world, many individuals struggle with face-to-face communication, making them more dependent on screens—without ever addressing the root of the problem.
We are here to change that!
Our sessions are designed to help children and young people, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), develop essential life skills in a supportive, nature-based environment. Many individuals find social interactions, empathy, and emotional regulation challenging, but through our carefully crafted outdoor experiences, they can build confidence, resilience, and meaningful connections.
- At Branch Out, participants will:
Learn practical forest skills like shelter building, fire lighting, and tool use - Develop creativity, curiosity, and problem-solving abilities
- Build friendships and social confidence in a relaxed, nature-filled setting
All sessions are led by a qualified Level 3 Forest School practitioner, ensuring a safe, enriching, and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Come and Branch Out with us—where adventure, learning, and connection grow naturally!
Our Mission
Our mission at Branch Out Forest School is to promote an engaging, diverse, outdoor environment for all, which embraces the five ways to well-being.
What does Branch Out Forest School hope to achieve?
- Develop self-esteem
- Increase benefits to physical and mental health
- Impact positively on attitudes to outdoors and physical activity
- Teamwork
- Interest in natural environment
- Creativity
- Awareness of quiet
- To express and have empathy and reminiscence (SEND)
- To promote conversations in home life
- Appreciation and enjoyment of learning
- Creatively impact on families’ attitudes and participation in outdoor activities
- Diverse community involvement
Frequently Asked Questions:
What about medication?
If your children/students need medication then please remember to tell us and to bring it with you. It is up to you to make sure we know any relevant medical conditions, and to bring appropriate amounts of any medication required. Please make sure that if your child/student suffers from asthma that they have an inhaler, and if they suffer from anaphylaxis and carry an EpiPen with them. We will refuse to accept children who do not have sufficient medicine, for their own safety.
Will my child/ren need money?
There will be no spending money required.
What should we wear?
Everyone attending must be suitably dressed for the occasion including parents/educators/carers. Long sleeve t-shirt/trousers and waterproof coat/over-trousers. Practical footwear – no crocs or open sandals. It is a lot cooler under the trees so layering is ideal.
Is there parking?
There is parking, but it is very limited. You are to inform Branch Out if you are travelling with a minibus.
What happens during high winds, thunderstorm and lighting?
If your children/students need medication then please remember to tell us and to bring it with you. It is up to you to make sure we know any relevant medical conditions, and to bring appropriate amounts of any medication required. Please make sure that if your child/student suffers from asthma that they have an inhaler, and if they suffer from anaphylaxis and carry an EpiPen with them. We will refuse to accept children who do not have sufficient medicine, for their own safety.
