Forest School Bush Kindy Foundations
​2-HR Course

Forest School Bush Kindy Foundations
Creating Meaningful Nature-Based Learning Experiences for Children
A Professional Development Course for Early Childhood Educators

Forest School Bush Kindy Foundations
Tuesday 6th October 2026
6:00pm - 8:00pm - Queensland

Tuesday 13th October 2026 
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM ​- New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, Australian Capital Territory
6:00pm - 8:00pm - Western Australia

Wednesday ​​14th October 2026
6:00PM - 8:00PM - South Australia, Northern Territory
6:30pm - 8:30pm - New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, Australian Capital Territory

Individual - $129 - Team - $599
Tax Deductible, Certificate received for Professional Development 
Course Overview
This professional development course introduces educators to the philosophy and practice of Forest School and Bush Kindy. Participants will explore how nature-based learning supports children's development, wellbeing, resilience and connection with the natural environment while gaining practical strategies to confidently implement engaging outdoor learning experiences aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF).

What Educators and Managers Will Learn
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
  • Understand the principles of Forest School and Bush Kindy.
  • Explain the benefits of nature-based learning for children's development and wellbeing.
  • Plan engaging outdoor learning experiences linked to the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF).
  • Create safe and stimulating outdoor environments that encourage exploration and play.
  • Support children to take appropriate risks while promoting safety and independence.
  • Use natural materials to enhance learning and creativity.
  • Foster children's connection with nature, sustainability and caring for Country.
  • Reflect on current practice and identify opportunities to strengthen nature-based learning within their service.
  • Develop practical strategies to embed Bush Kindy into everyday practice.
  • Create an action plan to implement or enhance a Bush Kindy program.

Module 1
Understanding Forest School and Bush Kindy
Participants will explore:
  • The philosophy and principles of Forest School and Bush Kindy.
  • The benefits of regular nature-based learning.
  • The role of the educator as a facilitator.
  • Child-led learning in outdoor environments.
  • Building children's confidence through exploration.
Reflection Activity
What messages do our learning environments send children about nature, curiosity and exploration?

Module 2
Why Nature Matters
Participants will explore how nature supports children's:
  • Physical development
  • Emotional wellbeing
  • Social development
  • Creativity and imagination
  • Confidence and resilience
  • Independence
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Sense of belonging
EYLF Connections
  • Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity.
  • Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world.
  • Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing.
  • Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners.
  • Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators.

Module 3
Creating Meaningful Bush Kindy Experiences
Participants will explore practical learning experiences including:
Nature Exploration
  • Nature walks
  • Seasonal investigations
  • Wildlife observations
  • Collecting natural materials
Creative Experiences
  • Nature art
  • Leaf printing
  • Stick weaving
  • Natural sculptures
STEM Learning
  • Weather observations
  • Plant growth investigations
  • Building shelters
  • Exploring habitats
Sensory Play
  • Mud kitchens
  • Water exploration
  • Barefoot experiences
  • Nature sensory trays
Learning Activity
Design five Bush Kindy learning experiences linked to the EYLF Learning Outcomes.

Module 4
Safe Risk and Outdoor Learning
Participants will explore:
  • The difference between risk and hazard.
  • The benefits of appropriate risk-taking.
  • Outdoor supervision strategies.
  • Supporting children's decision-making.
  • Developing risk-benefit assessments.
  • Policies and procedures for Bush Kindy programs.
Examples include:
  • Tree climbing
  • Building with natural materials
  • Water exploration
  • Rock and log play
  • Loose parts construction

Module 5
Connecting Children with Nature and Country
Participants will explore:
  • Building respectful connections with Country.
  • Caring for the natural environment.
  • Sustainability in early childhood settings.
  • Local plants and wildlife.
  • Seasonal learning opportunities.
  • Encouraging environmental responsibility.
Reflection Activity
How can we inspire children to develop a lifelong connection with nature?

Module 6
Bringing Bush Kindy into Your Service
Participants will develop an action plan to:
  • Introduce new nature-based learning experiences.
  • Enhance outdoor learning environments.
  • Engage families in Bush Kindy.
  • Strengthen educator confidence.
  • Embed Bush Kindy into everyday practice.

Course Resources
Participants will receive:
  • Bush Kindy Planning Template
  • Nature-Based Learning Experience Guide
  • EYLF Planning Guide
  • Risk-Benefit Assessment Template
  • Bush Kindy Reflection Journal
  • Action Planning Workbook
  • Certificate of Completion

Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
  • Explain the principles of Forest School and Bush Kindy.
  • Plan meaningful nature-based learning experiences aligned with the EYLF.
  • Create engaging outdoor environments that support children's learning and wellbeing.
  • Promote safe, appropriate risk-taking through intentional teaching.
  • Foster children's connection with nature, sustainability and caring for Country.
  • Develop an action plan to implement or strengthen a Bush Kindy program within their service.