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
- Reduces stress and improves well-being through time in natural settings.
- Strengthens relationships through shared exploration and conversation.
- Encourages movement and physical fitness through purposeful outdoor travel.
- Supports mindfulness and present awareness through natural exploration.
- Teaches navigation using environmental cues and basic compass skills.
Typical hazards & measures
- Water bodies or drainage ditches — Routes avoid open water unless specifically part of the activity and supervised. Edges are marked, and children are told to stay well back. Staff keep constant visual checks.
- 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.
- Falling behind due to SEN needs — Staff identify needs in advance and assign 1:1 support if required. Walk pace is adjusted to suit the group. Visual and verbal instructions are used and movement breaks offered.
- Overexcitement — Staff set calm expectations before the walk and use group calls or quiet signs to manage energy. Children are praised for calm walking and are given space to regulate when needed.
- Weather exposure and wet clothing — Check forecasts before sessions and adapt plans to suit conditions. Ensure children wear weather-appropriate clothing, including waterproof layers in wet conditions. Provide spare dry clothes on site and adjust session length or location to prevent prolonged exposure. Plan shelter options for sudden weather changes and monitor participants for early signs of cold stress.
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.