35 Outdoors & Rural Skills courses

Youth Options offers bespoke programmes of learning for children and young people (either 1:1 or in groups). Our aim is to support children and young people to feel inspired and capable to achieve something worthwhile, address issues they are facing, improve mental and physical wellbeing whilst appreciating the importance of the world we live in.

For more information about upcoming courses please visit: https://skylarkguiding.co.uk/navigation-course/

Our surf school in Watergate Bay offers surf lessons for all abilities; from complete beginners to those looking for more advanced surf coaching.

This course is suitable for all. You will learn how to make your own egg tempera paint from natural pigments and produce your own 10 x 12 " painting. All materials are included in the price but please bring old clothes/apron.

A day to sustain you, awaken the senses and restore the magic of your life.Learn how to develop and expand your senses in Nature to have a deeper and richer experience of your relationship with yourself and your natural environment. Time to stop, listen, breath and feel our innate connection to the beautiful world around us.  What's included in the price? All equipmentHot drinksFree parking Cancellation policy Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts

This 16 hour outdoor first aid course complies with all the qualification requirements set down for outdoor pursuits instructors looking to retain qualifications under the MLTE, BCU and BASI, the course includes both classroom and outdoor sessions and also involves training on an variety of improvised rescue techniques. This course and Executive Training Ltd is approved by BCU and RYA – see their list for yourself!

Join artist Julie Galante for this in-person workshop, where we’ll take inspiration from the historic city of Edinburgh. Participants of all experience levels are welcome for this friendly, small-group experience.  We’ll start with some guided warm-up sketches before moving on to drawing exercises focused on composition, tone, and observation. By the end of the workshop you’ll feel more confident drawing your surroundings, no matter your previous drawing experience.  Please come dressed for the weather, ready to spend time outside. You may also want to bring along a folding stool or a rug to sit on while you draw (there will likely be benches available, but this is unpredictable).  Participants will also need to bring along some basic art supplies:  A sketchbook and/or some drawing paper and board (A4 or larger recommended) Various drawing pens and pencils Charcoal or graphite sticks An eraser Any other favourite art supplies that you may like to use I'll also have some supplies to hand for you to borrow or purchase (please let me know in advance if there's something in particular you need). Locations 24 July 2025: Calton Hill Information about our precise meeting point will be circulated before the workshop. This workshop can take place in various locations around the city. If you have a request for a location for a future date, please get in touch. 

A fantastic opportunity to spend time in tranquil woodland in the heart of South East Kent making your own unique Hiking Staff, Walking Stick or Foraging Crook that you will value and use for a life time. You can choose to personalise your Staff with markings or carvings and could EVEN make your own Foraging Crook to use in the field on our Forage and Fire Course.  Sitting around a warm camp fire you will design and create your own personalised Staff/Stick with the guidance of an experienced instructor. During this one day practical event you WILL be... Given the tools and advice of how to make the most of your PERSONALISED design. Choose from various seasoned wood, Hazel, Ash or Maple. Decide on the length, the width and design for your UNIQUE Staff. Design and carve your own unique hiking staff Shown how to STRIP and SHAPE the seasoned wood correctly. Be given clear bushcraft instruction on SAFE knife and tool use. Provided with all the EQUIPMENT and materials needed, seasoned wood, tools, vanish and wax.  Carvings of your choice on your newly made Staff you may choose to add your own personal CARVING.  Given a choice of finishes for your Hiking Staff or Foraging Crook with either varnish or bees wax.  Choosing whether to add a rubber base to the bottom of your Staff. What's included in the price? Wood All tools and equipment Hot drinks Free parking Cancellation policy Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts

Private foraging in Argyll and Lochaber. The rest of the UK is also possible.

A survival adventure for all the family......imagine you are stranded in the wild...what survival skills would you require? Get the kids out in the woods experiencing nature up close.... Learning valuable survival and bushcraft skills Find out what the natural environment provides to help keep us safeBuild a waterproof shelter from natural materials Build and light a roaring fire to keep warmFind natural tinders and learn how to use a fire-steel Cook your delicious Survival food on the camp fireLead by an experienced instructor who will encourage and inspire your budding young bushcrafters Great Outdoor Activities your children will really enjoy What's included in the price? Free parkingIn person instructionAll equipmentFun and laughter Cancellation policy Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts