Tree Climbing Risk Assessment Template
Create a professional, comprehensive risk assessment for tree climbing in forest schools settings. Tailor hazards and measures to your needs and download a professional PDF. Add your own branding.
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What this covers.
This template focuses on typical risks and controls for tree climbing in forest schools settings. You can add, remove or adapt items to match your context.
Potential benefits
- Improves gross motor coordination, balance, and strength through climbing activity.
- Builds confidence and courage as children reach and achieve new challenges.
- Promotes resilience through repeated practice and overcoming fear.
- Strengthens connection with nature and respect for trees and wildlife.
- Enhances body awareness and movement planning during complex climbs.
Typical hazards & measures
- Elevated branches — Children only climb trees assessed by staff as structurally sound. Max climbing height agreed beforehand. One climber per tree. Area below kept clear to avoid distraction or crowding.
- Tree surface & contact injuries — Children wear long sleeves and trousers to reduce skin exposure. Staff clear lower trunks and common climbing routes of sharp twigs and protrusions. Children taught to climb slowly and carefully to avoid quick or jerky movements. Sap-prone areas identified, with instructions to avoid rubbing sap on skin or clothing. Wash stations or wipes provided, and staff aware of common irritant species. Minor cuts or scrapes treated promptly with on-site first aid.
- Extended climbing without breaks — Climbing sessions kept within appropriate time limits. Children given rest breaks and water. Encouraged to stop if tired or unsure. Staff model pacing and self-monitoring.
- Overhead branches — Staff scan climbing areas for face-height branches and trim where possible. Children reminded to look up before moving and turn heads slowly through canopy areas.
- Peer pressure — Group culture promotes choice and consent. Staff reinforce that not climbing is equally valued. Children supported in making their own decisions without judgment.
How to use this template
- Click Create Risk Assessment: Tree Climbing 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.
