Thanks to the fantastic support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery, we have been able to deliver thousands of Forest School sessions with Leicester city children since 2015.

Forest School enables children to have positive, hands-on experiences in the outdoors, connecting with, and learning about the natural world. The sessions also help improve mental well-being - developing self-esteem, boosting confidence, and building resilience.

This work wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated support of our wonderful group of volunteers, some of whom have been with us for over 7 years. They assist during the sessions, supporting children with the activities, as well as helping to set up and pack down.

I caught up with a few of them to find out why they got involved, and what they enjoy about it.

For all of them, a strong driver is combining a love of nature, being outside, and working with children. Nicola told me she enjoys: “Being outdoors and being part of assisting group activities [and seeing] the reactions and excitement of the children to the activities they did.” Volunteers also spoke about the benefits on their and the children’s mental well-being: “It is a way of relaxing and thinking I am younger” and: “Forest School is seen as a kind of therapy.”

There is also an important social aspect, with volunteers building close relationships with LRWT staff, children and

parents. One of the benefits for Claire, who assisted my colleague Fee Worton, was: “Getting to know her as a Leader” And as Nicola explained: “It is a lovely experience just to take time out, and assist my leader who is obviously so enthusiastic and professional in her work.”

Volunteering with us is a good way to gain experience and learn new skills that might lead to a career in Environmental Education. As Nicola explains: “[I wanted to volunteer] to gain experience [and to] to explore the role of a Forest School Leader. I have done a First Aid course with the Wildlife Trust [and] learnt outdoor crafts and how to teach in outdoor environments, which is of great benefit.”

Of course, there are always some aspects that can be seen as downsides! These include early starts and the cold and often wet weather (Forest School takes place whatever the weather, except strong winds), so it is important to come well dressed in warm waterproofs.

We are always looking for new volunteers to help us run our Forest School sessions. Our current volunteers certainly seem to get a lot out of it. Claire says she would recommend it, as it is “A lot of fun and laughs” while Juliet said: “I would encourage others to volunteer for Forest School, if they like being outdoors with youngsters, in all weathers and mud!”

Morning and afternoon sessions take place on weekdays, between 9 am and 3 pm, mainly in Leicester city.

If you would like to find out more and download an application form, click here

Martha Rose, Senior Education Officer: mrose@lrwt.org.uk