The Denmark Nature & Forest School Study Tour is designed for early childhood educators, centre directors, and education leaders who want to explore Denmark’s pioneering approach to outdoor learning. Co-organised by Tours for Teachers and Inside-Out Nature (a Danish forest school training consultancy), this immersive program provides the opportunity to visit innovative forest kindergartens and nature-based early learning centres, where you will observe children and teachers in action, and engage with Danish educators about their practices. Renowned for its play-based ethos and udeskole (outdoor schooling) tradition, Denmark has a long-held cultural expectation that children should play in nature regularly. On this tour, you’ll get a first-hand look at how Danish early years settings embrace the outdoors – rain or shine – to foster children’s growth, resilience, and love of learning.

Throughout the week, you’ll also enjoy cultural experiences that contextualise Denmark’s approach – including exploring historic Copenhagen and enjoying some Danish hospitality and hygge with your fellow tour members. Travelling with like-minded educators from around the world, you’ll share ideas and make lasting professional connections. This study tour is not only an educational experience but also a cultural adventure, offering inspiration and practical knowledge to bring back to your own classroom.

Understand the core tenets of Denmark’s approach to early childhood education in nature. You will learn how Danish pedagogues prioritise child-led play, social-emotional development, and connection to nature over formal academics in the early years. Discover why Denmark’s forest schools have thrived since the 1950s and how they’ve become culturally accepted as an integral part of upbringing.

See in action how Danish educators balance safety with freedom. You’ll learn approaches for managing “risky play” – allowing children to use real tools, climb trees, and explore off-trail – in a way that builds confidence and self-regulation. These insights will help you support adventurous play back home, within your own risk management guidelines.

Gain insight into how Danish early years curriculum goals (like motor skills, language, and collaboration) are seamlessly woven into outdoor activities. You’ll note how forest kindergarten settings turn beaches, gardens, and woodlands into enriching learning environments – from storytelling around a log circle to tracking animal footprints. Learn how Danish teachers use natural materials and seasonal cycles as a springboard for learning, and how unstructured play time outdoors can yield rich developmental outcomes. You will also see examples of shelters, tools, and clothing that make year-round outdoor education possible, offering practical ideas for your own centre’s environment.

Understand the broader context that makes Denmark’s ECE approach successful. During the tour, we’ll discuss how Danish society supports families and educators and how a culture of trust underlies daily practice. This understanding of policy, training, culture and community engagement will help you advocate for positive change in your own setting, armed with evidence from Denmark.

By comparing your home country’s practices with those in Denmark, you will develop a broader perspective on early education. Through group reflections, you’ll identify which elements of the Danish approach can be adapted to your context – whether it’s introducing more outdoor time, rethinking classroom risk management, or engaging parents and the community in nature-based experiences. Past participants report that seeing education through an international lens rekindles their passion and even “changes their focus for the rest of their career”. Expect to return with renewed inspiration, concrete strategies, and the confidence to innovate in your teaching practice.

Arrive in Denmark’s vibrant capital and settle into the centrally located Scandic Palace Hotel, overlooking City Hall Square. In the evening, enjoy a welcome reception and dinner at a local restaurant, where you’ll meet fellow travellers and get a taste of modern Nordic cuisine.

Accommodation: Scandic Palace Hotel, Copenhagen
Meals: Dinner

Start the day with a guided city walking tour, exploring Copenhagen’s charming laneways, royal landmarks, and hidden local favourites. Discover the stories behind the city’s history, culture, and famous hygge lifestyle. Enjoy a group lunch at a local restaurant, sampling Danish delights in a warm, relaxed setting. Weather permitting, join an optional visit to Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks.

Accommodation: Scandic Palace Hotel, Copenhagen
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Depart Copenhagen by private coach and head west to Viborg. Along the way, we’ll stop in Odense to visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, where you’ll explore the life and legacy of Denmark’s most beloved storyteller. Arrive in Viborg in the late afternoon and check into the peaceful Golf Hotel, set beside two scenic lakes.

Accommodation: Golf Hotel, Viborg
Meals: Breakfast

Begin your first day of Early Childhood Education visits and workshops, gaining insight into Denmark’s play-based and inclusive ECE approach. In the evening, enjoy a guided walk around Viborg’s historic old town, filled with cobblestone streets, cathedrals, and centuries of history.

Accommodation: Golf Hotel, Viborg
Meals: Breakfast

Continue your professional learning with more school visits and hands-on workshops, connecting with local educators and observing classroom practice. Enjoy a free evening to explore Viborg, relax by the lake, or dine at a local restaurant.

Accommodation: Golf Hotel, Viborg
Meals: Breakfast

Wrap up your learning experience with a final round of ECE visits and a reflective workshop. In the evening, gather with your group for a farewell dinner, celebrating new friendships and everything you’ve learned throughout the week.

Accommodation: Golf Hotel, Viborg
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we’ll depart Viborg by bus at 9:00 am. Enjoy a scenic stop en route (approx. 2 hours) before arriving back in Copenhagen around 3:00 pm.

Meals: Breakfast