Forest Schools
Nature Walks Risk Assessment Template
The complete guide to creating professional risk assessments for nature walk activities.
Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026
Essential guidance for nature walk safety
Nature walks are fundamental to forest school learning, combining physical activity with discovery and mindfulness. These guided explorations help children develop observation skills while connecting with the natural world.
This guide covers key hazards including uneven terrain, road crossings, tick bites, and child separation during group walks.
Outdoor Learning
Outdoor Learning
Activity Benefits
Why nature walks matter
Physical Fitness
Encourages movement and fitness through purposeful outdoor travel.
Mindfulness
Supports present awareness and stress reduction through natural exploration.
Navigation Skills
Teaches using environmental cues and basic compass skills.
Social Bonds
Strengthens relationships through shared exploration and conversation.
Risk Identification
Key hazards & control measures
Uneven TerrainHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Trips, slips, falls, sprains, and impact injuries on natural ground.
Control Measures
- Route reconnaissance completed
- Appropriate footwear required
- Point out hazards to group
- Slower pace on difficult terrain
Child SeparationHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Child becoming lost, distressed, or injured while separated from group.
Control Measures
- Regular headcounts
- Adult at front and back
- Clear group boundaries
- Buddy system in place
Tick BitesMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Tick attachment, itching, and potential Lyme disease transmission.
Control Measures
- Long sleeves and trousers worn
- Tick checks after walk
- Tick removal kit available
- Avoid tall grass areas
Road CrossingsMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Traffic collision or injury when crossing roads or driveways.
Control Measures
- Stop and wait as group
- Adult checks traffic
- Cross together on signal
- High-vis worn if needed
This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 20 hazards and 60+ control measures for Nature Walks, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.
Safety Checklist
Nature walks safety checklist
Pre-Walk Planning
- Route planned and walked
- Weather forecast checked
- Emergency contacts noted
- First aid kit packed
Group Management
- Headcount completed
- Adults positioned front/back
- Buddy system explained
- Group boundaries clear
Equipment
- Suitable footwear worn
- Waterproofs if needed
- Water bottles carried
- Sun protection applied
After Walk
- Final headcount done
- Tick checks completed
- Injuries reported
- Debrief with group
Ready to create your nature walks risk assessment?
Use our step-by-step wizard to generate a professional risk assessment in minutes.
