Developing the skills and understanding to work sustainably in forest and outdoor environments
Forest and Outdoor Learning Awards
Newbattle Abbey College is proud to be the Awarding Body for the Forest and Outdoor Learning Awards (FOLAs).
Developed in partnership with local authorities, colleges, schools, the Forest School Association, Forest and Land Scotland and outdoor learning leaders, Forest and Outdoor Learning Awards are internationally recognised and credit-rated on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF), providing a robust and respected framework for outdoor education.
This course has given me a better connection to myself and those around me... which is something that nobody can take from me.
Forest and Outdoor Learning Awards
Forest and Outdoor Learning Awards help people of all ages learn how to engage with forest and outdoor environments in sustainable, respectful and creative ways. Grounded in the ethos of Forest School, these awards place learners within the natural world and support active, person-centred education that fosters confidence, wellbeing and practical skills.
The awards are offered at SCQF Levels 2 to 8, providing pathways in both forest skills and forest leadership. They are designed to develop skills for learning, life and work, and are especially effective for those who thrive in practical, experiential settings.
Forest and Outdoor Learning Awards are inclusive and accessible to all. There are no tests or written requirements at Levels 2 to 4, and assessment is flexible and tailored to each learner’s needs, making them ideal for anyone who may find traditional classroom learning challenging.
Who is it for?
Forest and Outdoor Learning Awards (FOLAs) are designed to benefit everyone. Whether you are an individual learner or an organisation looking to enrich your programmes, Forest and Outdoor Learning Awards open the door to transformative experiences in nature.
They are built on a person-centred and therapeutic approach, recognising that learning in nature supports wellbeing, confidence and personal growth. Forest and Outdoor Learning Awards can be tailored to suit learners of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, with great success in adapting the awards to the needs and interests of each individual.
These awards are perfect for:
- Learners in school, including those in additional support needs settings, those at risk of low attainment or attendance, and/or those at points of transition
- Adults seeking new skills, personal development, Leadership skills or a connection with nature
- Individuals exploring personal wellbeing, skills development or pathways to further learning or employment
Become an Approved Assessment Centre
Newbattle Abbey College is the awarding body for the Forest and Outdoor Learning Awards (FOLAs) and we work in partnership with organisations across Scotland to expand access to high-quality outdoor learning. Organisations such as schools, local authorities, colleges, charities and community projects can apply to become Approved Assessment Centres. This enables you to deliver FOLA programmes directly to your own learners, creating flexible, accredited pathways in forest and outdoor learning.
I loved every minute of the Forest College, learning about conservation and it improved my mental health.
