'Amidst the chaos of our modern world, the wilderness remains an ancient and wise therapist, offering solace, clarity, and renewal to the hearts and minds that seek its heeling embrace. In nature we find respite, the wisdom to mend, the courage to grow, and the strength to reconnect with ourselves and the world around us. Wilderness therapeutic interventions are a beacon of hope, guiding us back to the roots of our humanity, where healing and transformation flourish.'
Debbie Debonnaire 2023

If you have ever felt the need to 'step off' and find some much needed time to answer the many questions you find yourself overlooking, then this course is for you.
If you have ever wondered about your direction in life- is it the best one for you? Does it truly reflect who you are? Will it take you where you are meant to be? Are you facing a fork or crossroads and are unsure which path to take, or even why?
This course is designed to help you to look into the 'Wilderness Mirror' and find your own answers to the questions that you have. 

This course will equip you with a certain level of bush craft and campfire skill, leading to increased sense of personal accomplishment and a new confidence to get out there for yourself. You will face challenges, but you will overcome them, with your new found tribe supporting you all the way!

This course  will provide you with the insight and tools to create your own intention statement, defining who you are and what journey you are on at the outset, and the chance to re-define this by the closing ceremony at the end of your time with us. 

This course is offered at the incredible introductory offer of  £70 for a 20 hour, in person, guided, therapeutic wilderness experience. 

Places are very limited as the course will run with only  8 participants. Due to the nature of the therapeutic work undertaken over the course of the 8 weeks, a  smaller tribe works best.

'Amidst the chaos of our modern world, the wilderness remains an ancient and wise therapist, offering solace, clarity, and renewal to the hearts and minds th...

The Therapeutic Wilderness

**What’s the project about?**

At Woodlandwise, we want 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 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

A series of  8 wellbeing sessions designed for women- come as you are and take what you need. No experience required and all resources provided free

Woodlandwise Wellbeing for Women- Garelochhead

Family Forest School is a valuable investment for families, offering quality time to bond away from daily distractions while fostering holistic child development through activities that build confidence, creativity, and resilience. It nurtures a deep connection to nature, inspiring environmental stewardship and sustainable practices, while promoting physical fitness and reducing stress for all ages. Families benefit from hands-on, curiosity-driven learning experiences that complement traditional education, and they become part of a like-minded community, creating lasting friendships and memories.
Join us for a fun filled family Forest School session in Kilmahew Estate, Cardross. We are so excited to be back after a little winter hibernation- are you ready to shake off the festive haze and step out into a bright new January? We would love to see some friendly faces- old friends and news ones- round the campfire in our favourite forest site for some woodland crafts, bush craft, campfire cooking, den building, games and more! Nature connection and people connection at its very best! We welcome people of all ages and families of all sizes, shapes and forms. If you would like to attend, but are unsure about any aspect, please do get in touch- we are happy to make any accommodations possible to ensure that Woodlandwise Family Forest School is as inclusive as possible and enjoyable for all.

Woodlandwise Family Forest School

Suzanne  Brown 

What a brilliant way to spend an afternoon. 
My 2 children and I had a great time trying the activities and just being outside round a campfire enjoying nature and having fun together. 
Helen and Lynn are so welcoming and knowledgeable, they naturally hold a wonderful safe space for everyone to relax and enjoy themselves. 

Lyn Thomson

We had a fantastic time! Our four year old loves playing with the swing and hammocks and toasting her first marshmallow! Everyone was very welcoming, instructions were very clear, the instructors were in complete control and things felt very safe despite the sharp tools and fire! Looking forward to going again soon! 

Ethan Russell

I am 8 years old. I went to my first session with my Mum last week & it was amazing. I really enjoyed it especially when I was out looking for kindling for the fire. I liked being there because it was nice being cut off from the modern world so that we could be like cavemen might have when they lived in the forest.
The instructors and everyone else there were very friendly, kind & helpful. They were also very full of knowledge about the forest. I look forward to my next one soon. Thank you 

Join us for a fun filled family Forest School session in Kilmahew Estate, Cardross. We are so excited to be back after a little winter hibernation- are you r...

Names and ages of participants

Is there anything you feel we should be aware of ahead of the session such as dietary information, allergies, medication or supported needs?

At Woodlandwise, we want 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 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- Rosneath

A series of 12 wellbeing sessions designed for women- come as you are and take what you need. No experience required and all resources provided free

Woodlandwise Wellbeing for Women- Rosneath

Come and join us for a relaxing woodland workshop making your own bespoke felted slippers, crafted to perfectly fit your own feet. You'll make your slippers from the finest, sustainable, merino wool using a wet felting technique and take a guided walk, including some forest bathing with a tea ceremony, as your feet do the felting on the hoof! This event is open to those of age 12 and over, under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. All materials will be provided, including hot drinks and campfire delights 😊.  You will need to be prepared to walk for around 2 hours for the process to work, but it will not be strenuous exercise and there will be opportunities to pause and rest. You will require an old pair of boots that lace up, wellies do not work. 

Come and join us for a relaxing woodland workshop making your own bespoke felted slippers, crafted to perfectly fit your own feet. You'll make your slippers ...

Felted Feet to Wear

Age if under 16. 

Any medical, dietry or allergy information you wish us to be aware of. 

Woodlandwise Holiday Camp is a valuable investment, offering quality time away from daily distractions while fostering holistic child development through activities that build confidence, creativity, and resilience. It nurtures a deep connection to nature, inspiring environmental stewardship and sustainable practices, while promoting physical fitness and reducing stress for all ages. Children benefit from hands-on, curiosity-driven learning experiences that complement traditional education, and they become part of a like-minded community, creating lasting friendships and memories.
Join us for fun filled  Forest School sessions in Kilmahew Estate, Cardross, or, Duchess Woods, Helensburgh.  You can attend as a one off, or book a series of sessions and really see the skills progress. We would love to see some friendly faces- old friends and news ones- round the campfire in our favourite forest site for some woodland crafts, bush craft, campfire cooking, den building, games and more! Nature connection and people connection at its very best! We welcome all children of primary age to these sessions. If you would like to attend, but are unsure about any aspect, please do get in touch- we are happy to make any accommodations possible to ensure that Woodlandwise Summer Camp Forest School is as inclusive as possible and enjoyable for all.

Woodlandwise Holiday Camps

Darren Nicholson

My little one has always loved being outdoors, and this is the perfect camp for him. Great range of games and activities for him to enjoy with his friends. He's already looking forward to the next one. 

Woodlandwise Holiday Camps are a valuable investme offering quality time away from daily distractions while fostering holistic child development through acti...

The Therapeutic Wilderness

Age Requirement