FAQs

1. Who are Trail Blazers and what do they do?

We exist so that young people with unmet needs can feel supported, heard, and empowered to discover the joy in learning. We want them to be able to chart their own educational path with confidence and resilience in our outdoor learning environment.

Our aim is to improve the outcomes of young people who are vulnerable, at risk or have well-being and/or social, emotional, and behavioural needs. We want to support schools and local authorities in ensuring that the young person continues to access an ambitious curriculum and hopefully the successful re-engagement into an educational setting.

2. What is our ethos?

Our ethos is to prioritise the well-being and holistic development of children through regular, immersive experiences in nature, guided by the following key aspects:

Connection with Nature: We emphasise the importance of children forming deep connections with the natural world. We provide opportunities for children to explore, play, and learn in outdoor environments such as woodlands, parks, lakes and green spaces.
Child-led Learning: Central to our Forest School ethos in particular is the idea of child-led learning. Rather than following a predetermined curriculum, activities are based on the interests, needs, and abilities of the individual child or group. This fosters a sense of autonomy, curiosity, and intrinsic motivation in learning.
Risk-taking and Resilience: We encourage children to take managed risks in a safe and supportive environment. Engaging in woodland activities such as climbing trees, building dens, as well as time spent engaging in fishing naturally promotes resilience, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence.
Hands-on Experiences: We focus on hands-on activities and sensory experiences. Children are encouraged to use their senses to explore and engage with the natural world, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the environment.

Holistic Development: We promote holistic development, encompassing physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and spiritual aspects of learning. Time spent outdoors in nature has been shown to have numerous benefits for children’s health and well-being, including increased physical activity, improved mental health, and enhanced creativity.

Environmental Awareness and Stewardship: Through regular interactions with the natural world, children develop a sense of responsibility and care for the environment. We encourage environmental stewardship by fostering a deep respect and appreciation for nature and by teaching children about sustainability and conservation.

Community and Collaboration: Our provision takes place in small, mixed-age groups, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among children. Peer-to-peer learning and cooperation are encouraged, promoting social skills, empathy, and a sense of belonging.

3. What happens when it rains and is really windy, do you still run?

We aim to run all year round in all weather conditions unless it is unsafe to do so (extreme weathers). We are guided by The Met Office weather reports and will only cancel a session should there be an Amber/Red weather warning issued. This is to ensure the safety of all adults and young people on our site. We do however have various covered learning spaces outside of our woodland setting to ensure sessions can continue even if it is too windy to be in the woods, so as to avoid the risk posed by falling branches.

4. I am attending a fishing session but don’t have any fishing equipment. Do I need to buy all the equipment?

We provide all the equipment and bait you will need on the day. All you will need to do is dress appropriately for the weather on the day and be ready to catch fish! If you fish regularly however, then please speak to a member of the team on your first day and we can arrange for you to bring some of your own equipment up should you want to.

5. I have no idea how to fish. Is that an issue?

Our angling coaches will work with you initially on a 1:1 basis to teach you the key skills you need to fish successfully. As you grow in confidence and experience with us, we will give you more opportunities to fish independently, advance your skills and put into practice what you have learnt.

6. Do I need to bring a packed lunch?

A bushfire breakfast and lunch is provided to all participants during our sessions. We try our best to identify likes and dislikes before the day of attendance so as to provide food liked by all. Hot and cold drinks are also available at all times throughout the day. If you’d like to bring your own food, or snacks however, you are more than welcome to. This being said, we do not permit the consumption of energy drinks whilst you are with us.

7. I have specific dietary requirements, will I still be able to enjoy a Bushcraft breakfast and lunch?

On our application form that has to be completed before joining us, you will be asked to add any dietary requirements that you may have and we will make sure we can provide you with a tasty breakfast and lunch to cater for your specific needs.

8. Do all staff have up to date DBS checks?

Yes. All are available on our shared online database.

9. I am worried about my child missing 'academic' lessons. Should I be?

We believe that a child is not able to study in a conventional school setting until they are emotionally secure within themselves. We do not have ‘learning objectives’ and the entire session is child focussed and led. We do however follow and believe in the 8 C’s curriculum and try to ensure this is embedded in everything we do.

10. What are the 8 C's?

Curiosity
The ability to ask questions and explore how the world works
Creativity
The ability to generate new ideas and to apply them in practice
Criticism
The ability to analyse information and ideas and to form reasoned arguments and judgements
Communication
The ability to express thoughts and feelings clearly and confidently in a range of media and forms
Collaboration
The ability to work constructively with others
Compassion
The ability to empathise with others and act accordingly
Composure
The ability to connect with the inner life of feeling and develop a sense of personal harmony and balance
Citizenship
The ability to engage constructively with society and to participate in the process to sustain it.

11. What should I wear

Please take a look at our Kit List which is located in our ‘About us’ section on our website. This should answer all your clothing questions. Maybe don’t wear your best clothes/shoes though! Our Trail Blazers t-shirts and hoodies are available to purchase directly from our website, which can be sent to your own address!

12. I am nervous about meeting new people and going to new places, can I come and visit before joining?

We encourage a site visit before joining our programme. This will give you the opportunity to take a tour of the site and meet a few of our community members. Being nervous is natural, but remember that everyone was in your shoes at one point so they understand how daunting it can be to join a new group of people. As a result of this, we have created a community that is friendly and welcoming. So try not to be too nervous!