Nature Resilience Toolbox
A small-group woodland programme using practical outdoor skills to build confidence, resilience and next steps.
Nature Resilience Toolbox is an early-help programme for young people who have found formal classroom provision problematic and who learn best by doing.
Through structured woodland sessions of practical skills; participants develop self regulation, resilience and teamwork, working towards a skills certificate and exploring next steps.
NEXT COHORT
Our current programmes are focused on keystage 2, 3 and 4 - but bespoke provision is available for those who fall outside of this range.
Location: Bidston Hill Woodland (click for google map link)
Time: 10:00-14:00
Day: Weekdays
Starting: TBC
Includes: 2-hr taster session available
Cost: Competitive
Group Size: maximum 8 participants (depending on needs)
What happens in a session?
Each session takes place outdoors in woodland.
Sessions are practical, engaging and can be curriculum indexed .Encompassing practical skills, teamwork challenges, games and creative making.
Typical activities will include: fire lighting, safe tool use, shelters, knots, outdoor cooking, navigation, woodland management and nature ID - plus games, challenges and time to chill in hammocks.
People take part in different ways - some dive straight into activities, others observe and find their rhythmn over time.
Over the initial 6 weeks, you can work towards a certificate showing what skills you’ve practised and developed.
If appropriate, ongoing provision can be arranged, with more experience learners taking up a mentorship role.
We also include a “what next?” element - meeting local people who work outdoors and sharing options for further courses, volunteering or land-based pathways.
Who this programme is for
This programme is designed for groups ranging between 11–18 year olds who:
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Have not found traditional classroom or training environments the right fit
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May be at risk of exclusion, disengagement or dropping out
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Learn best through practical, hands-on activity
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Are ready to commit to a steady 6-week programme in a small group
We welcome referrals from schools, alternative provision, Career Connect and community partners, home educators, as well as self-referrals.
Your part in the programme
We begin with a 2-hour taster session so you can meet the group, staff and try things out.
If you choose to continue, we’ll confirm your place for the full 6-week block.
Because the group is small (maximum 8), attendance matters. Coming regularly helps build trust, confidence and momentum — for you and for everyone else.
We ask that you commit to attending most sessions and letting us know if you can’t make it. Please arrive at the start of the session so everyone is present for the safety briefing and outline of the day.
What you'll gain
At Grow, we focus on three simple things:
Connection to Nature
Spending time outdoors helps build resilience, focus and perspective, Self regulation and positive, respectful conduct.
Connection to Others
Working in a small group builds communication, trust, belonging and teamwork.
Connection to Self
Learning practical skills builds confidence, agency and a clearer sense of life direction.
Over six weeks, these build together. Small wins add up.
Good to know
Food
We provide simple outdoor-cooked food, drinks and snacks. You’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer, however, sharing a communal meal is an important part of the social dimension.
Weather
We’re outdoors in most conditions. We use shelter and fire to stay warm. We only cancel in extreme or unsafe weather.
What to Bring
Clothes you can move in and don’t mind getting muddy. We’ll send kit guidance before the first session.
Travel
If getting to Bidston Hill could be difficult, let us know when you register - we’ll do what we can to help.
Communication
If you can’t attend, please let us know in advance. Showing up matters in a small group.
Parents / Carers
If helpful; professionals, parents or carers are welcome to stay nearby during sessions. Tam O’Shanter Farm café and toilets are found around a five-minute walk from our site.
Some sessions are full-on and energetic. Others are calm and steady.
You don’t need any prior outdoor experience - just be willing to have a go and take part.
Ready to take the next step?
Register below to be considered for a 2-hour taster session from 10:00-12:00 on a weekday
The taster gives you a chance to experience the programme and helps us make sure the group is the right fit for everyone.
After the taster, places are confirmed for those able to commit to the full 6-week programme.
When registering, tell us your preferred day and any practical constraints (for example travel) so we can plan appropriately.
Not sure yet? Email us at contact@grow-wellbeing.com
Referral partners can contact us directly to discuss suitability before submitting details.