Bushcraft

What is it? 
Bushcraft is an outdoor activity focusing on survival skills. It covers a range of basic skills including fire lighting, how to cook on an open fire and shelter building. You can also learn more advanced skills such as plant identification, sourcing and purifying water and much more.

What does it involve?

True bushcraft requires little to no equipment at all as naturally occurring items are used to build shelters and start fires however there are many variations of bushcraft available to schools.  The main focus of bushcraft is the element of learning and practicing survival skills with an emphasis on environmental sustainability.

Why do it and what are the benefits?
Bushcraft is becoming an increasingly popular activity within the U.K. learning the range of skills on offer is sure to boost a child’s confidence. It allows individuals to improve their knowledge of the environment and more specifically methods for sustainable living. It can also introduce a range of transferable skills including the ability to assess risk and manage it effectively. Bushcraft develops an individual’s ability to work well within a team.

What equipment do we need?
Most companies running bushcraft skill courses will provide the majority of equipment that you’ll need to participate although you should check beforehand though. Common items you will be expected to bring whilst participating in bushcraft are suitable outdoor clothing and a sleeping bag if you are staying over night. 

Who is it suitable for?
Bushcraft can be adapted for suitability of most age groups with the exception of early years and key stage one pupils. Companies offer a range of courses with varying levels of difficult. We would suggest you discuss the suitability of your pupils for a specific course with the provider before booking.

Costs?
There are a lot of factors to consider when booking a bushcraft course as a result there can be a large variation in cost. Courses can last from a matter of hours to matter of days. The amount of pupils and the range of activities you partake in also have an impact on the cost. Make sure you research a number of companies in order to get the best value for your school.

Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)
Children should always be supervised when participating in bushcraft activities especially as courses are often conducted outdoors and children may wish to explore their wider environment! It is important that children listen to the instructions given to them from members of the company providing the course. It is important to take any student specific medication along with you.

How do we include?
Disabled access to wooded areas is not common. If there are members of your group that do have a disability then you could consider getting a company to run a short course at your establishment.

Doing it abroad?
There are a lot of companies across Europe that can provide bushcraft courses.

Main website: 
For more information about Bushcraft please visit this website. Be sure to check out providers in your area before you book.