Whittling for Wellbeing

A range of social prescribing projects and training programmes designed to support vulnerable children and at-risk youth through nature-based whittling sessions. By providing a creative and hands-on experience in outdoor settings, we help participants develop focus, confidence, and resilience in a safe and supportive environment.

School & Education Providers

  • Subsidised woodcraft for wellbeing sessions for children aged 5–14 with SEND or SEMH needs.

  • Delivered in schools and at forest school sites during and outside of school hours. We also offer holiday whittling sessions

  • Sessions are led by expert whittlers with safeguarding, outdoor first aid, paediatric first aid, and forest school leader training with enhanced DBS checks.

  • Staff Ratios of up to 1:3 learners available.

Whittling for Wellbeing Workshops

  • Whittling workshops for children and young people under 18 on a self-referral basis.

  • Available for home-ed groups, organisations, and community groups, providing a hands-on, creative experience in a safe & supportive environment.

  • One off workshops, or blocks of whittling sessions are available

  • Workshops develop fine motor skills, confidence, and mindfulness from beginner to advanced whittling projects

Whittling Facilitator Training

  • Comprehensive online training packages designed to equip outdoor educators with the skills to deliver whittling sessions.

  • Our courses cover safe knife use, risk management, session planning, and practical whittling techniques, enabling educators to integrate woodcraft into their own programs.

  • Ideal for forest school leaders, outdoor instructors, and group facilitators looking to teach whittling as part of their activities.

  • CPD & Professional Development for Forest School Leaders

Who we support 

Whittling for Wellbeing Sessions are tailored for:

  • Children and young people facing challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, or social isolation due to special education needs or mental health

  • At-risk youth who are at risk of exclusion or have been excluded from education - benefiting from a positive and engaging activity that builds confidence and focus.

  • Schools, alternative education providers, and community groups seeking hands-on wellbeing interventions.

What to Expect

  • Outdoor Sessions: Delivered in natural settings to maximize the restorative effects of nature.

  • Expert-Led Workshops: Facilitated by skilled instructors experienced in working with young people.

  • Holistic Wellbeing Approach: Sessions integrate elements of nature based education, storytelling, mindfulness, and craft skills.

  • Small Group Sizes: Ensuring individual attention and a safe, nurturing space for personal growth.

Whittling for Wellbeing Outcomes

Confidence

85% of participants report improved emotional regulation and confidence.

Confidence

85% of participants report improved emotional regulation and confidence.

Learning Skills

90% of children developed new skills that support their personal growth and wellbeing.

Confidence

85% of participants report improved emotional regulation and confidence.

Mental Health

88% of parents and carers reported a reduction in stress and up regulation

Confidence

85% of participants report improved emotional regulation and confidence.

Testimonials

"The session was transformative for our group with additional needs. We watched as children who typically struggle with focus and engagement became completely absorbed in the craft, and the natural outdoor setting created a calm, inclusive space where they could learn at their own pace. The skilled facilitators understood exactly how to support each child's individual needs, and we've seen improvements in confidence, fine motor skills, and emotional regulation. We’d welcome more of these funded sessions!”

— Sarah Harding, SENDCo

Our Partners