At SisterWood, we create a demand-free space where young people can connect with nature and each other.
Through practical skills and mindfulness-based activities, participants develop tools for resilience, confidence, and a stronger sense of self. Our aim is to nurture a supportive environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
If you’re a professional, educator, or parent looking for a transformative experience for a young person, SisterWood offers a unique opportunity for growth, connection, and empowerment.
What is SisterWood?
Program Structure
SisterWood programmes are a series of small-group woodland sessions, where girls have time to build trusting relationships and connect with nature at their own pace. Each day begins with a listening circle around the fire, where girls and facilitators sit together to share how they are feeling and what they are grateful for. This grounding practice fosters a sense of community, encourages empathy, and nurtures a positive outlook.
What’s Included
From there, activities are tailored to the needs of the group. These might include fire-making, den-building, crafting with natural materials, exploring the woodland, outdoor yoga, mindfulness, or singing. Each session is rooted in creating opportunities for self-expression, collaboration, and a sense of achievement in a safe, supportive environment.
Session Lengths
Our full sessions typically run from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, one day a week during the academic term for around eight weeks in total. These longer sessions allow time to slow down, settle into the woodland, share food together and fully engage in meaningful activities without feeling rushed.
We recommend that young people live within a 30-minute commute of Oakwood, Heathfield Road, Denbury, Devon, TQ12 6ES
Eligibility
Programs are delivered for girls and those who identify as female, aged 12-16.
The programme is designed for girls who have had limited or no previous experience of Forest School, who are from lower income households and experience poor mental wellbeing.
With groups tailored to ensure experiences are appropriate and supportive. We create welcoming, inclusive spaces where girls can connect with others, build confidence and grow through shared experiences in nature.
The Heart of SisterWood:
Sharing a meal around the fire is a core part of every session. Participants learn to cook nutritious, vegetarian meals using organic and locally sourced ingredients. When possible, we incorporate foraged ingredients from the surrounding woodland, teaching young people about the abundance of food in the natural environment.
This practice not only builds practical cooking skills but also emphasises the importance of nutrition for mental health and fosters a deep sense of community.
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Yes, if the young person identifies as female and is within the age range, you’re very welcome to refer. These two things are essential. If the rest of the criteria aren’t fully met, we’ll still take time to review the referral and understand their needs. That said, we’ll prioritise young people who meet all the criteria, to make sure the programme is the right fit and offers the most impact.
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There’s no fixed fee to attend SisterWood, we want to keep the programme as accessible as possible. If families are able to contribute something towards the cost, that’s hugely appreciated and helps us keep the work going. If there’s access to local funding or other support for a place, we’re happy to explore that too. But no one will be turned away because they can’t pay.
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If you’re a parent or carer of a young person excited to join us in the woods, the first step is to speak with a professional who can make a referral on your behalf. This could be someone from Early Help, your GP (ask for a social prescriber), or your social worker. We’re happy to chat informally if you’d like to learn more before taking that step.
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Yes. You’re welcome to refer them ahead of time. As long as they’ll have turned 12 by the time the programme starts, they’ll be eligible to join. If they’re not quite 12 yet, we’re happy to hold onto the referral and stay in touch until they’re the right age.
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Young people just need comfy clothes, a coat, a water bottle, and wellies or sturdy shoes if it’s muddy. If they take any regular medication, please pack it and let us know in advance. We’ll provide everything else, including snacks, no need to bring lunch!
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Young people usually travel to SisterWood sessions with a parent, carer, or trusted adult. If that’s not possible, we have a small pool of trusted drivers who may be able to help, just let us know in advance. We’ll always work with you to find a safe and easy way for them to get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to refer a young person?
All referrals must be made by a professional who works with the young person