Professional Training Day - Storytelling in the woods

An introduction to the art of oral storytelling. This course will help people to develop the confidence to take their first steps in telling

The day

Who is this course for? Anyone who works with children in an outdoor setting and/or would like to take the first steps to telling a story themselves. If you are a Forest School or other youth group leader looking to tell a fireside tale, work in environmental education or are just keen to develop ways to have fun with stories outside, then this course is for you.

Tutor: Jane is an experienced storyteller and environmental educator working in a variety of settings from school grounds to country parks and nature reserves. Jane has worked on storytelling projects with The Wildlife Trust BCN, The Greensand Trust, Central Bedfordshire Council, RHS, Plant Life, as well as numerous schools and community groups.

Arrival from 9.30 for tea/coffee, course starts at 10am.

Drinks, tea, coffee, fruit and homemade cake will be provided but please bring some lunch with you.

The venue

The course will take place in our beautiful working, hazel woodland, Bottoms' Corner; most enjoy just being there all day. You are free to explore, and Guy and Jane are always very happy to talk about the wood and the coppicing they do there. They do find, however, that most guests are far too focused to spend time thinking about much else.

There's a walk of about 300m, through the wood, up a slope from the car park to the venue although we can provide a lift for anyone who needs it.

We use a variety of folding and rigid chairs, camping style hand wash and a 'tree bog' in the wood, which has received praise from previous participants for its privacy and great view. Water for your drinks is boiled over an open fire throughout the day.

What you'll need to bring

We will provide all materials, a variety of teas, coffee, other soft drinks, fruit, biscuits and cakes. Please bring your own packed lunch.

Please contact us if you are at all concerned about your physical ability to participate fully in the day; we will do as much as we can to make it possible.

The tutor

This day will be led by Wassledine's own Jane Lambourne. Jane is an experienced storyteller and environmental educator working in a variety of settings from school grounds to country parks and nature reserves. She has worked on storytelling projects with The Wildlife Trust BCN, The Greensand Trust, Central Bedfordshire Council, The RHS, Plant Life, as well as numerous schools and community groups.