NATURE CONNECTION
& WELLBEING
QUALIFICATIONS
We now offer two GCSE equivalent qualifications
A GCSE-Equivalent Qualification Achieved Through Outdoor Learning
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The Open Awards Level 1 and Level 2 in Nature Connection & Wellbeing (RQF) are the first qualifications of their kind in the UK, offering a GCSE-equivalent route through practical, nature-based, portfolio learning.
The qualifications are Ofqual-regulated, nationally recognised, and designed to be inclusive, giving young people the chance to gain a meaningful qualification in a way that reflects how they learn best. There are no written exams - learners build a portfolio through real experiences in nature.
These qualifications can be delivered in schools, Forest Schools, home education groups, youth organisations, community programmes, SEMH provision and alternative provision.
​​​Who This Qualification Is For
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This qualification has been specifically designed by a multidisciplinary therapeutic team and inclusive educators to meet the needs of a wide range of learners. It follows a neuro-affirming, strengths-based approach that values different ways of thinking, communicating and engaging with the world.
It is suitable for young people who are autistic, who have SEND, sensory needs, ADHD or PDA, who have experienced trauma or anxiety, or who face emotional barriers to school attendance, as well as those who simply feel more confident and grounded outdoors. The portfolio model allows learners to evidence their work in accessible, creative ways that reflect their strengths and preferred ways of communicating.
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Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing
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Research shows that contact and connection with nature can help young people feel calmer, improve their mood and support focus and emotional wellbeing.
The Open Awards Level 1 and Level 2 Awards in Nature Connection & Wellbeing (RQF) were developed with clinical psychologists, nature connection researchers, therapists and outdoor education specialists to encourage these benefits in learners. The qualification teaches young people straightforward, practical ways to use nature to support their own wellbeing - from grounding and sensory awareness to simple mindful noticing - all within a safe, guided outdoor setting.
Why choose this qualification?
Created by Forest School leaders, Therapists, and Clinical Psychologists, it helps young people develop a deep understanding of nature connection while supporting their mental health and wellbeing.
Equivalent to a GCSE, this is the first qualification in the UK in Nature Connection and Wellbeing. It's a future-focused qualification that prepares young people to meet two of the world’s fastest-growing needs: mental health and wellbeing support and the green economy.
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We live in a world where mental health challenges are rising, time spent outdoors is decreasing, and the need for environmental action has never been greater, this qualification provides young people with the knowledge and skills they need for the future.
This qualification bridges the gap between mainstream education and the therapeutic benefits of nature-based learning, capturing progress that isn't easily measured by traditional academic subjects.
The qualification also opens doors to further study and careers in outdoor education, conservation, mental health, and wellbeing-focused roles, making it a valuable stepping stone for the future.
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Research shows that connecting with nature can reduce anxiety, improve mood and increase motivation to protect the environment, yet until now, there's never been a formal qualification in this area.
We also deliver this course for adults!
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We know that many adults also want to spend more time outdoors in the natural world but sometimes lack the knowledge and confidence to know how to do this.
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This level 2 qualification provides a structured pathway to develop practical skills, self-awareness, wellbeing and mindfulness in nature.
This course is ideal if you are already working with, or want to work with children and young people outdoors. You may be a teacher, a youth worker, a teaching assistant or a child care worker who wants to learn the benefits of nature connection and explore ways that you can take your work with children and young people outside.
You don't have to be working with children and young people to do this course - it's ideal for parents, students...anyone who wants to learn more about the power of spending time in nature!
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Read more about our Level 2 Award in Nature Connection and Wellbeing for Adults below:
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For more information or to arrange a call with our training team please email Hello@rewildingyouth.co.uk
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