Nature Walks Risk Assessment Template
Create a professional, comprehensive risk assessment for nature walks in forest schools settings. Tailor hazards and measures to your needs and download a professional PDF. Add your own branding.
Begin straight away; create a free account later if you want to save.
What this covers.
This template focuses on typical risks and controls for nature walks in forest schools settings. You can add, remove or adapt items to match your context.
Potential benefits
- Develops curiosity through discovery of local plants, tracks, and habitats.
- Encourages movement and physical fitness through purposeful outdoor travel.
- Reduces stress and improves well-being through time in natural settings.
- Supports mindfulness and present awareness through natural exploration.
- Strengthens relationships through shared exploration and conversation.
Typical hazards & measures
- Natural terrain hazards — Inspect routes before sessions to identify low branches, exposed roots, loose rocks, uneven ground, slippery surfaces, and steep slopes. Mark or remove hazards where possible and guide the group through them carefully. Advise sturdy footwear and demonstrate safe walking techniques for challenging terrain. Provide close supervision in higher-risk sections.
- Dog fouling — Staff check walk routes for signs of dog fouling and guide children around affected areas. Children are reminded not to touch anything on the ground and to wash hands after the walk.
- Restricted visibility — In dense areas, staff space children out, use bright clothing or vests, and stop at key points to regroup. Adults positioned front and back remain in visual contact.
- Animal encounters — Staff assess potential encounters with livestock or wild animals. Children are briefed on how to behave calmly and quietly, and routes avoid known animal territories where needed.
- Public access or strangers — Walks avoid areas with heavy public foot traffic when possible. Children are told not to talk to strangers. Staff stay alert to others and keep children in sight at all times.
How to use this template
- Click Create Risk Assessment: Nature Walks to begin immediately.
- Review suggested hazards and measures, then tailor as needed.
- Download your PDF. Create a free account if you want to save.
FAQ
Do I need an account to start?
You can begin filling out your risk assessment straight away. Create a free account if you want to save your work.
Can I download a PDF?
Yes - download a clean, professional PDF at the end.
Can I edit a saved assessment?
Yes, personal and unlimited members can edit saved assessments from the account dashboard.