Foundation Course
Level 1
Forest School Teacher Training - Level 1
JULY 8-19, 2024
Bishop, California
The Foundation Course is open to everyone, from beginners to experienced educators and seasoned naturalists.
This course lays the groundwork for those on a journey towards Forest Kindergarten Teacher Certification. Level 1 participants may be experienced educators and naturalists. Level 1 also welcomes beginners, those with naturalist skills eager to understand early childhood development and practices, as well as those with an early childhood education background who want to develop naturalist skills to deepen their work.
Foundation Course ~ Level 1
Teachers: Erin Dews, Lia Grippo & Guest Presenters
To apply to our Foundation Course- Level 1:
complete the Teacher Training application
join our email list if you have not already
contact us if you have questions after reviewing the information on this page
2024 course info below
Dates: July 8-19th Location: Bishop, Ca
Foundation Course Tuition
“I feel totally different when I’m outside, I have a truly awakened curiosity about nature. And I feel so much more confident as a parent… which has allowed me to enjoy my son more and release anxiety around parenting. I started working at a forest school and really surprised myself at how confident and at ease I was as a new teacher— while I have a lot to learn experientially, the foundation I gained at the Academy has given me many tools to start that journey. Lastly, I was surprised to discover that my experience at the Academy expanded far beyond learning to work with children outdoors—these deeply thoughtful trainings were really a meditation on care—how to care for ourselves and each other, how to care for the land, and how to care for the next generation. ”
$2400 course tuition, early application before Apr.2, 2024
$2900 course tuition, regular application
$400 non-refundable deposit is due upon acceptance into the course to secure the space.
* Level 1 and Level 2 may be taken in the same summer. However, a space of a year is required between Level 2 and Level 3 in order to complete requirements for Level 3.
The Foundation Course Overview
What makes a Forest School?
Why is Nature Connection necessary?
Human Development, Nature, and the Young Child
Nature Connection for personal and professional development: Developing the Naturalist within
Principles of Stewardship with Young Children
Storytelling as a Teaching Tool Styles of Mentoring
Fundamentals of Teaching Young Children Outdoors
Risk Assessment and Management
Working with your Community
Teaching Tools including: Songs, Rhymes, Games, Arts and Crafts
“The Foundation Course was a life-changing experience, and everything I want in my life’s work. Part magic, part cultural renewal, mixed with storytelling and developmental psychology, and large doses of nature connection, awareness inquiry, and healthy play. The training offers a holistic view of connecting with the child, with place, with nature, with the human soul. Erin, Kelly and Lia bring together so much embodied wisdom and share it through a library of enthralling personal stories. There is a depth to what they offer that can only be understood by meeting them and spending time in their company. They are incredibly playful teachers, yet there are layers upon layers of intentionality and wisdom hidden within the songs they sing and the twinkle in their eyes. It is an amazing opportunity to sit in circle with these three sisters as they hold space for us to further explore and expand this meaningful work with children in the world. I am so grateful to have them as my guides! ”
Program Schedule
Daily schedule, Monday-Friday, is generally 8:45am - 4:30pm.
Saturdays & Sundays are days off.
Please arrive at 8:30am on the first day.
Participants are responsible for their own lodging, transportation, and meals, including a packed lunch. Local camping and lodging suggestions will be offered.
The course includes required nightly readings.
Post-course homework must be completed to progress through the training for those aiming to complete the Academy's Certification. Learn more about the Certification here.
“The rhythm and pace of learning allowed me to integrate much of the depth and breadth of this course. I have many new tools to bring to my work, and more confidence working with each child’s developmental stages.”