Our training offers

Empowering children through outdoor learning and nature-based activities.

Natural Thinkers trains teachers and practitioners to deliver outdoor learning activities for the Early Years Foundation Stage, Key Stage 1 and 2. The programme meets the needs of all children, including those with SEND. We provide a clear framework to follow based on embedding 10 commitments into your setting.

What is Natural Thinkers training?

What about Stay and Play sessions?

We also train community groups and children's centres to run Natural Thinkers Stay & Play sessions. Please get in touch if you would like to know more.

Ask us what we can do for you

How long is the training?

We offer one-day training packages. In the morning we explore the theory, including benefits, obstacles and solutions. The afternoon session teaches you practical activities on mindfulness, STEAM, connecting to nature, and caring for the natural environment.

We can tailor our courses to your needs.

Please contact us to discuss what we can do for your setting.

You can opt for an additional half day of online training to support self regulation and executive function. This includes an overview of the evidence base, activity demonstrations, and strategies to support Personal, Social and Emotional Development skills (PSED). For example, using Natural Thinkers to help children foster self-awareness, self-control, planning, and problem-solving abilities.

What are the 10 commitments?

During the training we'll introduce you to the 10 commitments to becoming Natural Thinkers. We'll teach you how to implement them with no- to low-cost resources. For example, ensuring access to natural areas and materials, providing opportunities to play and grow, and allowing parents to get involved.

Embedding each of these commitments will bring all the benefits of outdoor learning into your setting.

How do you become a Natural Thinkers setting?

When you finish the training, you can decide if you want to become a Natural Thinkers setting. If yes, we give you time to embed the 10 commitments into your outdoor curriculum. When you're ready, we'll come to assess your setting. If you pass, you'll receive a certificate and be added to our list of accredited settings.

Accredited schools and settings

What is our training offer for local authorities/academy trusts?

We offer training packages for local authorities/academy trusts. We deliver the training outlined above for up to 20 practitioners – as well as the optional online network meetings, accreditation visits and an evaluation report.