**Forces and Me Forest School – Holiday Sessions for Forces Families**

**Location:** Duchess wood, Helensburgh and McAuley Burn Oak Wood, Garelochhead\
**Who it’s for:** Children with a parent currently serving in the armed forces and who are Primary aged or S1

- **Sunday 5th October- Helensburgh**

- **Sunday 19th October- Garelochhead**

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Join us for some Autumn woodland adventure, discovery and connection at our *Forces and Me Forest School* sessions – specially designed for children from armed forces families.

These fun and supportive sessions give children the chance to unwind, explore nature and build confidence in a calm, nurturing outdoor setting. Through typical forest school activities like den building, fire lighting, nature crafts, tool use, games, and team challenges, participants develop practical skills, resilience, and strong peer bonds.

Each day is tailored to the age group attending, with a focus on creativity, cooperation and wellbeing.

Led by experienced forest school practitioners- Helen & Lynne, these sessions offer a space to relax, make new friends, and enjoy the benefits of nature – especially important for children navigating the unique challenges of military family life.

**Free to attend – limited spaces available. Booking essential. Only for those families of active serving armed force personnel.**

Forces and Me Forest School

Lucy Bentley

Grace absolutely loved her time at forest school, she was talking about it for the rest of the day asking to go back. Thank you for putting this on such a great experience 

Sommer Edgcumbe-Allan

My son and his friend had an amazing time at the Forrest school, they keep asking when the next one is! 

Ewan Smith

Had the best time making fishing rods and eating smores!! Learned about how to stay safe when using fire outdoors too.
Can't wait to go on the next one!

Ollie  Kettles

Ollie always loves forest school. As soon as he came home yesterday he asked me to book again for next time. 

Ethan Wheeler

I enjoyed it alot. I would definitely come again

Jack Sierota 

My 5 year old son had a wonderful time in the woods with Lynn & Helen. It was pouring with rain but they had a perfect set up with shelter & hot chocolate. My son has been asking when he can go back! Would definitely recommend. 

**Forces and Me Forest School – Holiday Sessions for Forces Families**

**Location:** Duchess wood, Helensburgh\
**Who it’s for:** Children with a parent cur...

Please provide the Name and Date of birth of your child

Please provide any information you feel we should know ahead of the session- medical, allergies, learning style

A series of wellbeing sessions designed for women- come as you are and take what you need. No experience required and all resources provided free.

As Woodlandwise, we hope to create a warm, welcoming, and supportive space for women in our local woodlands. It’s a place to escape the stress of everyday life, feel less isolated, and boost your confidence by learning new skills and reconnecting with nature.

We offer activities like bushcraft skills, campfire cooking, mindfulness, forest bathing, and other therapeutic experiences. This is more than just learning practical things; it’s about creating friendships, building a sense of belonging, and empowering women to thrive in their communities.

We understand that life’s changes—like moving to a new place, having children, becoming a caregiver, or navigating menopause—can sometimes leave women feeling out of touch or overlooked. By bringing women of all ages and backgrounds together, we aim to create a supportive circle where you can share stories, wisdom, and laughter, all while building your own support network.

**Who is this for?**

We welcome all women and those who identify as female, embracing diversity in all its forms. Our project values:

- **Age:** Women of all ages are encouraged to join and connect.
- **Disability:** We work hard to make our activities accessible and adaptable for everyone.
- **Gender identity:** If you identify as female, you are welcome.
- **Marriage and partnership:** We respect all relationship choices.
- **Pregnancy and motherhood:** Whether you're struggling pre-pregnancy, post-pregnancy, or anywhere in between, we’re here to support you.
- **Race and ethnicity:** We warmly welcome women from all ethnic backgrounds, including refugees and asylum seekers.
- **Religion or beliefs:** While we respect all beliefs, this isn’t a space for broader religious discussions.
- **Sexual orientation:** Everyone is valued and respected here.

We’re committed to making this experience free of charge, ensuring that no one is excluded due to financial barriers. Plus, our chosen locations are easily accessible without needing a car.

**What can you expect to gain?**

Here are the three big ways this project can make a difference:

1. **Connection:** We know isolation can make it hard to feel confident or hopeful. That’s why we’ve created a space where you can share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with, learn skills like cooking on a campfire or using tools, and just enjoy being part of something special. It’s amazing what happens when women come together—ideas flow, conversations spark, and life-changing moments can happen.
2. **Resilience:** Life can be tough—juggling work, family, and personal challenges can be overwhelming. By learning new skills, forming new friendships, and stepping out of your comfort zone, you’ll discover strengths you didn’t know you had. That newfound energy can ripple out into your home, your community, and beyond.
3. **Inclusion:** We’re all about welcoming women from all walks of life to share this experience in the woods. Whatever your background, abilities, or stage of life, we’ll meet you where you are, making sure everyone feels valued, included, and celebrated.

**Why it matters**

Spending time in nature has proven benefits for mental health and well-being. But this is more than just a walk in the woods—it’s about being part of a group that supports and uplifts you. Whether you’re recovering from life’s challenges, managing anxiety, or simply looking for a new spark, this project offers a safe, encouraging space to grow and connect.

**How we’ll measure success**

We’ll ask participants to complete a “Well-being Wheel” at the start, middle, and end of the program to track progress in areas like confidence and overall well-being. But we’ll also keep things informal, paying close attention to how relationships grow and evolve throughout the project.

**Who’s running the show?**

The Woodlandwise Forest School CIC team includes two experienced leaders who’ll guide the sessions. Each programme will run for 12 weeks with up to 12 women at a time, across different locations, so travel and transport won’t be a problem.

We’re excited to create a space where you can relax, recharge, and rediscover your strength. Let’s grow together in the woods!

Woodlandwise Forest School - Woodlandwise Wellbeing for Women- Arrochar

Woodlandwise Wellbeing for Women- Arrochar

Gerena Sumen

It was a great outdoor experience. Under a canopy, nice and dry. We had tea, homemade rhubarb and custard heated over a fire pit. Sat in nature immersing with the trees, plants and river to be in tune with ourselves. Loved every minute. We were strangers first and left as friends. Go try it!

Katie Kennedy

Created by lovely women for a safe environment, to bring wholeness reducing anxiety, in fresh air with the healing scents and colours of the forest. Learning new skills, meeting other similar people. I love this opportunity to be in nature and experience its ability to bring wellness. Thank you. 

A series of  wellbeing sessions designed for women- come as you are and take what you need. No experience required and all resources provided free.

Please provide your name an date of birth

Please let us know of any medical, allergy or dietary information we should be aware of

Please provide name and number for your emergency contact

Woodlandwise Forest School CIC is delighted yo be able to providd s series of free family woodland play sessions where you can enjoy your local Community woodland together- learn about the wildlife on your doorsstep by engaging in some fun play and activities- connecting with the woodland habitat anc each other. Learn about the woodland ecosystem and the important role your young people can have as future custodiansof our wild spaces. Play together and grow together as a family. 

Castle Woods Free  Family Nature Play Sessions

Jill Lee

We had a lovely afternoon at the family woodland play session in Rhu. The children were engaged, entertained and challenged by the wonderful leaders. I managed to spend some time in a very comfy hammock watching and listening which was exactly what I needed. We will definitely be going again. 

Gayle  Turnbull

Fantastic morning in Castle Woods. Our daughter had a great time climbing, searching for bugs and playing with the other kids. Really well run and was a wonderful experience! Can't wait to do it again! Thank you!

Debbie Elwood

Our time with Woodlandwise is something we look forward to! As a family we really feel the benefit of spending time together in nature and Lynne and Helen make this so easy for us by providing a relaxed environment with lots of activities to choose from. The boys have developed so many skills and I have loved seeing their confidence grow with each session. You’ve given the boys skills that they’ll use later in life and not just an ‘in the moment’ experience. Thank you for all that you do! 😊

David  Doherty 

Great activities, friendly members running the event. My daughter and I have been twice now and we have really enjoyed our time. We will be back!

Helen MacLeod

Fantastic, great for littles to explore and free to play with activities as they chose to in safe woodland environment.

Oliver Pritchard 

My daughter enjoyed the crafts and the hammocks while my son and his friend had a great time with the archery sets. The hot chocolate went down a treat too. 👍

Woodlandwise Forest School CIC is delighted yo be able to providd s series of free family woodland play sessions where you can enjoy your local Community woo...

Please let us know about any medical conditions or allergies of any member of your group

Please let us know the number attending in your group and the age of children

Woodlandwise Earthsong Journeys is a therapeutic nature-based wellbeing programme designed to support reconnection, resilience, and renewal through shared experiences in the woods.

Each journey weaves together woodland skills, mindful nature connection, and creative reflection. Participants learn practical bushcraft and land-based skills alongside opportunities for rest, discovery, and growth. The rhythm of each session follows the natural world — encouraging balance, confidence, and a deeper sense of belonging.

Grounded in community and guided by the seasons, Earthsong Journeys offers a safe and supportive space to explore personal wellbeing while nurturing connection to others and to the living landscape.

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This is a 6 × 3hrs block of sessions designed to be followed as a progressive programme.

Outcomes include:

Increased emotional and physical wellbeing

Strengthened confidence, self-awareness, and resilience

Deeper connection to nature and community

Space to slow down, reflect, and find renewed purpose

Whether lighting a fire, crafting from natural materials, or sitting quietly among trees, participants are invited to listen to the land — and to themselves — as part of a gentle, empowering journey of growth and reconnection.

Your journey will be guided by Helen, a fully qualified Level 3 Advanced Wilderness Therapeutic Practitioner, Level 3 Forest School Leader, and Think Like a Tree Facilitator, supported by Lynne, an accomplished outdoor educator and bushcraft leader with extensive experience in group facilitation. Both Helen and Lynne are Branching Out Leaders, Scottish Mental Health First Aiders, and hold certifications in Outdoor First Aid, Outdoor Cooking, and Food Hygiene. Having collaborated for many years, they bring a uniquely dynamic energy to their work, creating a safe, nurturing, and transformative space for all who join them.

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💚 Contribution and Sliding Scale

We offer Woodlandwise Earthsong Journeys on a sliding scale, so everyone can take part whatever their circumstances. This approach helps keep the programme accessible while valuing the time, skill, and care that go into creating it.

Please choose the rate that feels right for you:

🌱 Supported rate – £90 for 6

For those on lower incomes or experiencing financial hardship.

🌿 Standard rate – £130 for 6

Covers programme costs and fair facilitator pay.

🌳 Sustainer rate – £160 for 6

For those able to pay a little more to help someone else access the programme.

All rates include six guided woodland sessions (3 hours each), materials, refreshments, and resources for reflection between sessions.

If cost is still a barrier, please get in touch — we can explore bursaries or energy exchanges (such as volunteering or skill-sharing) so the programme remains open to all.

Woodlandwise Earthsong Journeys is a therapeutic nature-based wellbeing programme designed to support reconnection, resilience, and renewal through shared ex...