Forest School CPD and Networking Day, Eskra

What to Expect

The Northern Ireland Forest School Association brings its Local Area Forest School continuing professional development and networking day to St Patrick’s Primary School in Eskra on Thursday 27 August 2026, running from 9am to 3pm. Forest School is a structured approach to outdoor learning in which pupils spend regular sessions in a woodland or natural setting, and the qualification pathway for leaders is delivered through recognised training bodies, so an event like this sits somewhere between a professional refresher and a practitioners’ meet-up.

The day pairs theory sessions with practical outdoor work, and the association is also using it to reveal and trial its NIFSA and Twinkl Forest School resources. There are speakers, research reviews and open discussion, and the programme includes graduations for newly qualified Forest School leaders, which gives the day a marker-of-the-year feel for people finishing their training. Attendance is free for staff from organisations holding current premium membership of the association, with two staff eligible per organisation; premium membership itself is listed at £100 a year. Other attendance options and membership details are handled directly by the association at hello@forestschoolsni.com. Booking is through Eventbrite.

Good to Know

• Date and time: Thursday 27 August 2026, 9am to 3pm
• Venue: St Patrick’s Primary School, 171 Newtownsaville Road, Eskra, BT78 2RJ
• Price: free for staff of premium member organisations, two per organisation; premium membership is £100 a year
• Organiser: Northern Ireland Forest School Association
• Programme: theory and practical sessions, NIFSA and Twinkl Forest School resources, speakers, research reviews and leader graduations
• Enquiries and other attendance options: hello@forestschoolsni.com
• Booking through Eventbrite in advance
• Bring outdoor clothing and footwear, as part of the day runs outside

Getting There

Eskra is a small village in south Tyrone between Omagh and Fintona, roughly eight miles from Omagh. The school is on the Newtownsaville Road. From Omagh, head south on the B83 towards Fintona and turn off for Eskra; from Ballygawley and the A4, come north through Fintona. The nearest towns for accommodation or food are Omagh and Fintona. Public transport into Eskra is very limited, so most attendees will drive, and there is parking at the school.