Outdoor Learning and Nature Connection in a Lithuanian Forest School

Boost engagement, well-being, and academic outcomes in inspiring settings.

Immerse yourself in a uniquely authentic forest school experience by the Baltic Sea and discover the benefits of outdoor learning in nature. This practical course blends outdoor play, mindfulness, and movement-based activities to enhance learning. Gain tools to create inclusive, dynamic, and stress-free lessons with experienced forest school trainers—leaders in nature-based education in Lithuania.

Join our unique outdoor course led by Dovile Urbanaviciene, a top Forest School leader from Lithuania. A certified Level 3 trainer and Forest therapy guide with extensive experience training both Forest and traditional educators worldwide, she brings authentic expertise. Set in a real Forest School, the course embraces core values: physical and emotional health, community building, creativity, critical thinking, nature connection, and sustainability. Enjoy outdoor play, crafts, and hands-on lessons with nature’s resources while promoting holistic learning. Experience academic subjects in a new light through exploration, risk management, and problem solving. Practice forest bathing, mindfulness, and reflective tasks to boost well-being and focus. Engage in sessions with children and teachers at a Forest School and Kindergarten, and learn practical strategies for creating engaging, nature-based classes. By the course end, you’ll return revived and inspired to take your teaching outside.

Learning Objectives:

• Enhance academic delivery: Apply innovative outdoor learning tools and strategies to teach academic subjects effectively within a Forest School setting.

•  Foster holistic well-being: Incorporate nature connection, play, and movement activities to boost student well-being, focus, and overall learning.

•  Instill sustainability: Use natural resources to nurture a deep appreciation for sustainability and environmental stewardship.

•  Reflect on core values: Examine and apply Forest School principles and values through reflective analysis of educational sessions with children’s groups.

•  Design experiential sessions: Develop multisensory, multidisciplinary outdoor teaching sessions that integrate academic content with hands-on experiences.

•  Manage outdoor environments: Learn practical tools for setting up and managing outdoor classes, ensuring curriculum quality and safety.

•  Build global partnerships: Forge international partnerships for future Erasmus+ collaborations.

•  Improve communication: Enhance oral English skills through active participation and immersive learning experiences.

Methodology & Assessment:

• Practical workshops: Engage in hands-on activities including outdoor games, campfire building, and crafts with natural materials. Integrate subjects like mathematics and literature into nature-based learning.

•  Smart Teachers Play More methodology: highlighting a positive approach to learning where academic concepts can be taught through sensory and movement activities.

•  Mindfulness and nature connection: Practice forest bathing, mindfulness exercises, and reflective tasks and enjoy the restorative benefits of hammocks.

•  Collaborative learning: Work individually and in teams during interactive workshops that build practical teaching skills.

•  Outdoor lesson planning: Collaborate to organise and implement engaging outdoor lessons in a Forest School setting.

•  Reflective practice: Develop personalised tool cards for outdoor education through creative exercises and non-violent communication techniques.

•  Digital collaboration: Utilise digital tools for resource sharing, collaborative projects, and assessments.

•  Forest School immersion: Visit and observe Forest School classes to deepen your understanding of its core principles and values.

•  Cultural experiences: Participate in hikes, amber catching, and sauna sessions to enhance well-being and foster a strong connection with nature.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR PROFESSIONALS ACROSS THE EDUCATION SECTOR:

This course offers learning opportunities for teachers and school staff across the education sector including: Preschool; Primary; Teaching assistants; School management; Student teachers; and Non-formal education teachers;

AS PART OF THE COURSE WE ALSO PROVIDE:

• Morning refreshments
• Cultural activity - amber catching on the Baltic Sea shore
• Cultural activity - sauna experience by the Baltic sea
• Course material
• Certificate of attendance

COURSE DATES:

01.06.2025 > 07.06.2025 CONFIRMED

17.08.2025 >  23.08.2025 CONFIRMED

14.09.2025 >  20.09.2025 CONFIRMED

CERTIFICATION AND RECOGNITION FOR ERASMUS +:

Participants will receive:

• Europass Mobility Document
• Learning Agreement and Evaluation Form
• Any additional documentation required by your National Europass Agency or National Office.