OUTDOOR EDUCATION LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION COURSE
This is primarily a hands-on, experiential course and is based on nature connection, practices and activities. The program will introduce earth education, nature awareness, creative interpretation, bushcraft, sensory awareness and narrative skills.
Who is it suitable for?
The program has been created for those on a personal and professional development path. It may be at the point of a career change or after graduating that the need for practical experience and mentoring in the field is required.
To align you with your goals, connect you deeply with nature and offer you tools and experience that will translate effectively into everyday life.
The program is geared toward teachers, educators, outdoor instructors, rangers, forest school leaders, play-workers, and in more general terms, those who are change-agents, community leaders, people in personal or professional transition.
For those who long a more fulfillment in their lives and a deeper impact in the world.
What will you learn?
- Learn and/or develop new skills, tools and techniques to become a more effective educator
- Gain experience with a range of client-groups
- Discover more of your gifts, passions and vision
- Move yourself closer to your professional aspirations, and toward your dreams for yourself and the world
- Receive coaching, mentoring and support
- Adopt routines that connect you with nature and can facilitate others connection to nature
- Be introduced to new ideas and new practices
- Foundation Program Outline
Program Structure:
- 6 modules, 3 days each
- 5-10 days field work on Into the Wild Portugal camps or events.
- Various assignments and practices associated with developing nature connection and integrated learning.
ORIENTATION– 9th to 11th January 2026
Learn an unique program rooted in Indigenous wisdom – THE 8 SHIELDS PROGRAM – teaches a framework for deep nature connection, community building, and personal growth, inpired by indigenous principles and ecological principles.
Introduction to Outdoor Survival basic skills – medicine wheel, Orientation, firecraft, campcraft skills, introduction to Core Routines, Nature connection practices, Community building, Compass directions framework, Peace principles . Practical & Experientral activities like storytelling and community rituals.
Holistic approach, blending ecology, psychology and cultural design. Night walk. Assignments & practices.
PT
Módulo de Orientação : 9-11 de Janeiro de 2026
Vamos mergulhar no ” 8 Shields Programa” – É um modelo de mentoria baseado na natureza, criado para cultivar uma conexão profunda com a natureza, consigo mesmo e com a comunidade.
Foi fundado por Jon Young, antropólogo e naturalista, e vem sendo desenvolvido desde 1983.
Estrutura-se em torno das oito direções da bússola, cada uma representando um escudo – um conjunto de princípios e práticas ligados a fases da vida, às estações do ano e aos ciclos do dia.
Este programa promove consciência ecológica e ajuda a desenvolver resiliência, empatia e liderança.
Procura curar a desconexão cultural e incentivar práticas comunitárias regenerativas.
