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NATURE-BASED TEACHER CERTIFICATION


We are thrilled to offer our Nature-Based Teacher Certification as a multi-level program to provide in-depth study of best practices in nature-based early childhood education and prepare teachers for meaningful outdoor learning experiences. Each level offers 36-clock hours of training with in-person and online options available.

Whether you are in a formal school or childcare setting or working in a nature or forest preschool, this course is designed to meet the needs of early childhood educators working in any setting. Learn more about each level of certification below. (Note: See photos from the very first cohort of teachers to participate July 2018 in Baltimore, MD.)

Registration Options
Join us online OR in person! Registration now open for virtual six-week courses and for our in person, five-day training experiences (summer sessions). Please note that the online course is designed like an interactive college course and requires real-time participation with presenters. This is not a pre-recorded "on demand" class - you get to network with others as you learn.




Summer 2026:
In Person Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level I

Site: Lime Hollow Nature Center, Cortland, NY
Dates: July 20-24, 2026


Fall 2026:
Online Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level I


Dates: September 22 - October 29, 2026

Times: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. (EST)



Winter 2027: Online Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level I

Dates: January 12 - February 18, 2027 

Times: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. (EST)




Winter 2027: 

Online Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level II


Dates: January 19 - March 4, 2027

Times: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 7 - 9 p.m. EST


Check out more in-person events here!

About the Nature-Based Teacher Certification 

The Level 1 introductory certification course covers a range of skills and approaches crucial to implementing nature-based early childhood pedagogy. Topics include: working in and with the local landscape; risk management and safety routines; developmentally appropriate practice outside; emergent curriculum; licensing considerations; outdoor inquiry, literacy, creative arts, math, and games; making learning visible through documentation and assessment; breathing nature in classroom spaces; gear, supplies, and tools; honing naturalist skills and personal sense of wonder; and ways to support your learning community. We will also touch on relevant research, standards, NAEYC positions statements, and policy that impacts delivery of nature-based ECE.

The Level 2 intermediate course is designed for participants who have already completed the intro credential.  The intermediate course delves into more nuanced facets of running a nature-based program, managing/mentoring teachers, and promoting your program. During the registration process, you may also include special topics for deeper study. Participants will document outdoor teaching practices for an online learning component as part of the culminating credential. The intermediate course addresses these topics:

Preparation of the Guide: Reflective practices for deep, rich personal nature connection; approaches to hone clarity of mind, intentions, and purpose 

Teaching Practices & Outdoor Curriculum: Emergent and intentional curriculum; application of skill development across developmental domains in outdoor settings

Authentic Assessment & Documentation: Assessment of child growth and development in the context of outdoor learning

Administration: Shaping your program’s vision; key considerations for nature-based administrators; hiring; on-going staff mentoring; staff and program evaluation

Earth Skills & Handcrafts: Practical skills using tools and local natural resources; fire-making, foraging, and cooking with young children

Risk Management: Health and safety topics; policies and procedures that protect children, families, and staff; special considerations for administrators

Land Values & Stewardship: Implementing and instilling sustainable approaches to sharing the land and its natural resources; local natural history, ecology, and conservation topics surround a given site; identification of native flora/fauna and ecological communities; cultural and ethical considerations about land use

Which certification format is right for me: online or in-person?

On one hand, the in-person training affords many connections that an online course can't. You get to interact with fellow participants and fantastic presenters throughout the week. You benefit from the camaraderie and support of your colleagues as you experience new ideas, skills, and nature-based activities together - which is fun and inspiring. The live course takes place over five intense days away from work/home responsibilities, which allows you to be immersed in the training experience and focus on all the new ideas/skills that are covered.
 On the other hand, the online course covers the same information but it is stretched out over six weeks in shorter sessions. This allows you to consider each topic and apply it immediately in your unique setting. Although the networking is different online, you still get to meet people from all over the country and world. Naturally, it costs more to run a live training and participants pay for accommodations. That means the cost is greater to attend the live training. If your budget is a primary factor in the decision, or if you don't want to until until the summer to take the course, then the online option is a great way to go! We only offer level 1 online, so you can always join us in person when/if you pursue levels 2 and 3.

Note: Regardless of the format you choose, we have built 36 clock hours of training into the course. While we understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, please note that we will not award a full certification to participants who miss a significant portion of the course. The training is for 36 clock hours, so if you do not attend the full course, we cannot award full hours or certification for this training. If a challenge suddenly comes up for you, let us know and we'll see how we can help.

Schedule for Level 1 and Level 2 (In-person training experience)

We gather from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, with an altered schedule on Thursday, which includes program observations, afternoon sessions, and an evening earth skills night (until 9 p.m.). Yoga is included on select mornings from 7:45-8:30 a.m. Complete schedule, training agenda, and materials list is provided following registration.



Schedule for Level 1 (Online training experience)

We gather over six consecutive weeks, which includes 24 hours of direct learning together and 12 clock hours of skills-based practice and self-paced learning. Complete schedule, training agenda, and materials list is provided following registration.

How do I obtain Nature-Based Teacher Certification (NBTC) status?

1) Complete the course. You may attend a live, weeklong training event or our six-week online option. Successful completion is determined by:

  • Active participation and attendance for the full training; if you do not participate for the full training, you will not be eligible for full certification, which is for 36 clock hours
  • Completion of assignments including journaling/reflective practice, readings, cohort projects, and action plans
  • Demonstrate thorough understanding of nature-based education and pedagogy based on training experiences
2) Documentation of teaching requirements OR resume. This will vary depending on whether you work in a licensed setting or a non-licensed or informal setting. For those working in a licensed setting, you may submit completion of early childhood training, often referred to as a 90-hour certification OR the equivalent Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.  This ensures that participants have basic knowledge of early childhood education principles, which is required to work in a licensed setting. For people working in non-formal and unlicensed settings, you may submit a professional resume instead (EX. home school parent, Montessori teacher, college student, outdoor educator, etc.). 

3) Current Infant/Child First Aid and CPR credentials. *Please note that NBTC participants receive a discount on the first aid/CPR course offered by the Institute for WildMed.  Participants also receive a discount on WildMed's wilderness first aid course. 


You must upload these documents to fulfill the certification requirements, so please be sure to have them available if you would like to receive full certification at the conclusion of the training.  We will provide a training certificate to acknowledge either a "certificate of attendance" or "full certification". If you do not meet requirements stated above or some aspect is pending, we will award a certificate of attendance. If you would like the full certification, you may submit outstanding documents up to sixty days following the final day of your course for full certification status. Participants who successfully complete the training and provide required documentation will receive full certification.

Who should attend?

Educators, administrators, and child care providers are ideal participants for the Nature-based Teacher Certification.  Others who could benefit include: parents, camp leaders, church leaders, retired teachers, scout leaders, after school youth programmers, etc. The course is designed for practitioners working in a range of learning environments including nature preschools, forest kindergartens, traditional preschools, public schools, childcare centers, or daycare settings. Participants will consider their unique locations to determine how to make the most of their indoor and outdoor learning environments.

Who are the trainers?

Experienced nature-based educators and naturalists from across the region share their knowledge throughout the course. You can count on outstanding expertise throughout your course experience. Details will be forth-coming for registered participants.

How long is the certification current?

The certification is good for (3) three years from date of completion. After that, you must take the Level 2 certification (good for another three years) or at least 12 clock hours of nature-based training with ANBE each year thereafter to remain current. 

Meals & Accommodations (In-person training experience)

Five-day course includes daily breakfast and lunch, Monday-Friday, with lunch and dinner only on Thursday. You can specify allergies and/or meal preferences when you register. Please be sure to bring your own canteen to use throughout the week. Overnight accommodations are not provided during the five-day course, but occasionally on-site camping is available. Please see the registration page for more details. 

Work Study (Available for In-person training experience)

For those needing financial assistance to attend our in-person course sessions (please also see our scholarship opportunities) we now offer work study volunteer opportunities. Work study volunteers provide support during the course with set-up/clean-up, presenter support, meal preparation, and more. In exchange for volunteer hours, work study volunteers receive a discount on registration fees.  For additional information, please contact our Programs Coordinator at programs@anbe.org.

Payment plans may be available upon request. Once a payment plan is initiated, remaining installments will be deducted automatically. The total tuition balance must be paid in full prior to attending the event. To inquire about a payment plan, please reach out to Jasmine Atkins (jasmine@anbe.org).

About the Training Sites

We select partners that have ample outdoor spaces for our live gatherings and indoor spaces for inclement weather or sessions that may need A/V equipment. If you run a nature-based program or school, we encourage you to contact us as if you'd like to be considered as a potential host site. Each summer we offer one week of training in Baltimore, MD and rotate to offer another week of training in another state. 

Please note that all participants are required to complete this waiver during registration. Our refund policies are found here as well. Additional health precautions will be implemented to safeguard our learning community from the spread of COVID-19 based on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations. For additional information, contact the Program Coordinator, Kirsten Mize.

Spaces are limited and these courses fill! Don't delay if you'd like to join us!


Summer 2026:
Online Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level I


Dates: June 15th - July 23rd, 2026

Times: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 2 - 4 p.m. EST

Summer 2026:
In Person Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level I


Site: The Waldorf School of Baltimore, MD

Dates: July 6-10, 2026



  

Summer 2026:

In Person Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level II


Site: The Waldorf School of Baltimore, MD

Dates: July 6-10, 2026


Summer 2026:
In Person Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level I

Site: Lime Hollow Nature Center, Cortland, NY
Dates: July 20-24, 2026


Fall 2026:
Online Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level I


Dates: September 22 - October 29, 2026

Times: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. EST

Winter 2027:

Online Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level II


Dates: January 19th - March 4th, 2027

Times: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 7 - 9 p.m. EST


Check out more in-person events here!

About the Nature-Based Teacher Certification 

The Level 1 introductory certification course covers a range of skills and approaches crucial to implementing nature-based early childhood pedagogy. Topics include: working in and with the local landscape; risk management and safety routines; developmentally appropriate practice outside; emergent curriculum; licensing considerations; outdoor inquiry, literacy, creative arts, math, and games; making learning visible through documentation and assessment; breathing nature in classroom spaces;  gear, supplies, and tools; honing naturalist skills and personal sense of wonder; and ways to support your learning community. We will also touch on relevant research, standards, NAEYC positions statements, and policy that impacts delivery of nature-based ECE.

The Level 2 intermediate course is designed for participants who have already completed the intro credential.  The intermediate course delves into more nuanced facets of running a nature-based program, managing/mentoring teachers, and promoting your program. During the registration process, you may also include special topics for deeper study. Participants will document outdoor teaching practices for an online learning component as part of the culminating credential. The intermediate course addresses these topics:

Preparation of the Guide: Reflective practices for deep, rich personal nature connection; approaches to hone clarity of mind, intentions, and purpose 

Teaching Practices & Outdoor Curriculum: Emergent and intentional curriculum; application of skill development across developmental domains in outdoor settings

Authentic Assessment & Documentation: Assessment of child growth and development in the context of outdoor learning

Administration: Shaping your program’s vision; key considerations for nature-based administrators; hiring; on-going staff mentoring; staff and program evaluation

Earth Skills & Handcrafts: Practical skills using tools and local natural resources; fire-making, foraging, and cooking with young children

Risk Management: Health and safety topics; policies and procedures that protect children, families, and staff; special considerations for administrators

Land Values & Stewardship: Implementing and instilling sustainable approaches to sharing the land and its natural resources; local natural history, ecology, and conservation topics surround a given site; identification of native flora/fauna and ecological communities; cultural and ethical considerations about land use

Which certification format is right for me: online or in-person?

On one hand, the in-person training affords many connections that an online course can't. You get to interact with fellow participants and fantastic presenters throughout the week. You benefit from the camaraderie and support of your colleagues as you experience new ideas, skills, and nature-based activities together - which is fun and inspiring. The live course takes place over five intense days away from work/home responsibilities, which allows you to be immersed in the training experience and focus on all the new ideas/skills that are covered.

 On the other hand, the online course covers the same information but it is stretched out over six weeks in shorter sessions. This allows you to consider each topic and apply it immediately in your unique setting. Although the networking is different online, you still get to meet people from all over the country and world. Naturally, it costs more to run a live training and participants pay for accommodations. That means the cost is greater to attend the live training. If your budget is a primary factor in the decision, or if you don't want to until until the summer to take the course, then the online option is a great way to go! We only offer level 1 online, so you can always join us in person when/if you pursue levels 2 and 3.

Note: Regardless of the format you choose, we have built 36 clock hours of training into the course. While we understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, please note that we will not award a full certification to participants who miss a significant portion of the course. The training is for 36 clock hours, so if you do not attend the full course, we cannot award full hours or certification for this training. If a challenge suddenly comes up for you, let us know and we'll see how we can help.

Schedule for Level 1 and Level 2 (In-person training experience)

We gather from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, with an altered schedule on Thursday, which includes program observations, afternoon sessions, and an evening earth skills night (until 9 p.m.). Yoga is included on select mornings from 7:45-8:30 a.m. Complete schedule, training agenda, and materials list is provided following registration.



Schedule for Level 1 (Online training experience)

We gather over six consecutive weeks, which includes 24 hours of direct learning together and 12 clock hours of skills-based practice and self-paced learning. Complete schedule, training agenda, and materials list is provided following registration.

How do I obtain Nature-Based Teacher Certification (NBTC) status?

1) Complete the course. You may attend a live, weeklong training event or our six-week online option. Successful completion is determined by:

  • Active participation and attendance for the full training; if you do not participate for the full training, you will not be eligible for full certification, which is for 36 clock hours
  • Completion of assignments including journaling/reflective practice, readings, cohort projects, and action plans
  • Demonstrate thorough understanding of nature-based education and pedagogy based on training experiences
2) Documentation of teaching requirements OR resume. This will vary depending on whether you work in a licensed setting or a non-licensed or informal setting. For those working in a licensed setting, you may submit completion of early childhood training, often referred to as a 90-hour certification OR the equivalent Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.  This ensures that participants have basic knowledge of early childhood education principles, which is required to work in a licensed setting. For people working in non-formal and unlicensed settings, you may submit a professional resume instead (EX. home school parent, Montessori teacher, college student, outdoor educator, etc.). 

3) Current Infant/Child First Aid and CPR credentials. *Please note that NBTC participants receive a discount on the first aid/CPR course offered by the Institute for WildMed.  Participants also receive a discount on WildMed's wilderness first aid course. 


You must upload these documents to fulfill the certification requirements, so please be sure to have them available if you would like to receive full certification at the conclusion of the training.  We will provide a training certificate to acknowledge either a "certificate of attendance" or "full certification". If you do not meet requirements stated above or some aspect is pending, we will award a certificate of attendance. If you would like the full certification, you may submit outstanding documents up to sixty days following the final day of your course for full certification status. Participants who successfully complete the training and provide required documentation will receive full certification.

Who should attend?

Educators, administrators, and child care providers are ideal participants for the Nature-based Teacher Certification.  Others who could benefit include: parents, camp leaders, church leaders, retired teachers, scout leaders, after school youth programmers, etc. The course is designed for practitioners working in a range of learning environments including nature preschools, forest kindergartens, traditional preschools, public schools, childcare centers, or daycare settings. Participants will consider their unique locations to determine how to make the most of their indoor and outdoor learning environments.

Who are the trainers?

Experienced nature-based educators and naturalists from across the region share their knowledge throughout the course. You can count on outstanding expertise throughout your course experience. Details will be forth-coming for registered participants.

How long is the certification current?

The certification is good for (3) three years from date of completion. After that, you must take the Level 2 certification (good for another three years) or at least 12 clock hours of nature-based training with ANBE each year thereafter to remain current. 

Meals & Accommodations (In-person training experience)

Five-day course includes daily breakfast and lunch, Monday-Friday, with lunch and dinner only on Thursday. You can specify allergies and/or meal preferences when you register. Please be sure to bring your own canteen to use throughout the week. Overnight accommodations are not provided during the five-day course, but occasionally on-site camping is available. Please see the registration page for more details. 

Work Study (Available for In-person training experience)

For those needing financial assistance to attend our in-person course sessions (please also see our scholarship opportunities) we now offer work study volunteer opportunities. Work study volunteers provide support during the course with set-up/clean-up, presenter support, meal preparation, and more. In exchange for volunteer hours, work study volunteers receive a discount on registration fees.  For additional information, please contact our Programs Coordinator at programs@anbe.org.

Payment plans may be available upon request. Once a payment plan is initiated, remaining installments will be deducted automatically. The total tuition balance must be paid in full prior to attending the event. To inquire about a payment plan, please reach out to Jasmine Atkins (jasmine@anbe.org).

About the Training Sites

We select partners that have ample outdoor spaces for our live gatherings and indoor spaces for inclement weather or sessions that may need A/V equipment. If you run a nature-based program or school, we encourage you to contact us as if you'd like to be considered as a potential host site. Each summer we offer one week of training in Baltimore, MD and rotate to offer another week of training in another state. 

Please note that all participants are required to complete this waiver during registration. Our refund policies are found here as well. Additional health precautions will be implemented to safeguard our learning community from the spread of COVID-19 based on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations. For additional information, contact the Program Coordinator, Kirsten Mize.

Spaces are limited and these courses fill! Don't delay if you'd like to join us!


Summer 2026:
Online Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level I


Dates: June 15th - July 23rd, 2026

Times: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 2 - 4 p.m. EST

Summer 2026:
In Person Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level I


Site: The Waldorf School of Baltimore, MD

Dates: July 6-10, 2026



  

Summer 2026:

In Person Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level II


Site: The Waldorf School of Baltimore, MD

Dates: July 6-10, 2026


Summer 2026:
In Person Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level I

Site: Lime Hollow Nature Center, Cortland, NY
Dates: July 20-24, 2026


Fall 2026:
Online Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level I


Dates: September 22 - October 29, 2026

Times: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 7-9 p.m. EST

Winter 2027:

Online Nature-Based Teacher Certification | Level II


Dates: January 19th - March 4th, 2027

Times: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 7 - 9 p.m. EST


Check out more in-person events here!

About the Nature-Based Teacher Certification 

The Level 1 introductory certification course covers a range of skills and approaches crucial to implementing nature-based early childhood pedagogy. Topics include: working in and with the local landscape; risk management and safety routines; developmentally appropriate practice outside; emergent curriculum; licensing considerations; outdoor inquiry, literacy, creative arts, math, and games; making learning visible through documentation and assessment; breathing nature in classroom spaces;  gear, supplies, and tools; honing naturalist skills and personal sense of wonder; and ways to support your learning community. We will also touch on relevant research, standards, NAEYC positions statements, and policy that impacts delivery of nature-based ECE.

The Level 2 intermediate course is designed for participants who have already completed the intro credential.  The intermediate course delves into more nuanced facets of running a nature-based program, managing/mentoring teachers, and promoting your program. During the registration process, you may also include special topics for deeper study. Participants will document outdoor teaching practices for an online learning component as part of the culminating credential. The intermediate course addresses these topics:

Preparation of the Guide: Reflective practices for deep, rich personal nature connection; approaches to hone clarity of mind, intentions, and purpose 

Teaching Practices & Outdoor Curriculum: Emergent and intentional curriculum; application of skill development across developmental domains in outdoor settings

Authentic Assessment & Documentation: Assessment of child growth and development in the context of outdoor learning

Administration: Shaping your program’s vision; key considerations for nature-based administrators; hiring; on-going staff mentoring; staff and program evaluation

Earth Skills & Handcrafts: Practical skills using tools and local natural resources; fire-making, foraging, and cooking with young children

Risk Management: Health and safety topics; policies and procedures that protect children, families, and staff; special considerations for administrators

Land Values & Stewardship: Implementing and instilling sustainable approaches to sharing the land and its natural resources; local natural history, ecology, and conservation topics surround a given site; identification of native flora/fauna and ecological communities; cultural and ethical considerations about land use

Which certification format is right for me: online or in-person?

On one hand, the in-person training affords many connections that an online course can't. You get to interact with fellow participants and fantastic presenters throughout the week. You benefit from the camaraderie and support of your colleagues as you experience new ideas, skills, and nature-based activities together - which is fun and inspiring. The live course takes place over five intense days away from work/home responsibilities, which allows you to be immersed in the training experience and focus on all the new ideas/skills that are covered.

 On the other hand, the online course covers the same information but it is stretched out over six weeks in shorter sessions. This allows you to consider each topic and apply it immediately in your unique setting. Although the networking is different online, you still get to meet people from all over the country and world. Naturally, it costs more to run a live training and participants pay for accommodations. That means the cost is greater to attend the live training. If your budget is a primary factor in the decision, or if you don't want to until until the summer to take the course, then the online option is a great way to go! We only offer level 1 online, so you can always join us in person when/if you pursue levels 2 and 3.

Note: Regardless of the format you choose, we have built 36 clock hours of training into the course. While we understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, please note that we will not award a full certification to participants who miss a significant portion of the course. The training is for 36 clock hours, so if you do not attend the full course, we cannot award full hours or certification for this training. If a challenge suddenly comes up for you, let us know and we'll see how we can help.

Schedule for Level 1 and Level 2 (In-person training experience)

We gather from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, with an altered schedule on Thursday, which includes program observations, afternoon sessions, and an evening earth skills night (until 9 p.m.). Yoga is included on select mornings from 7:45-8:30 a.m. Complete schedule, training agenda, and materials list is provided following registration.



Schedule for Level 1 (Online training experience)

We gather over six consecutive weeks, which includes 24 hours of direct learning together and 12 clock hours of skills-based practice and self-paced learning. Complete schedule, training agenda, and materials list is provided following registration.

How do I obtain Nature-Based Teacher Certification (NBTC) status?

1) Complete the course. You may attend a live, weeklong training event or our six-week online option. Successful completion is determined by:

  • Active participation and attendance for the full training; if you do not participate for the full training, you will not be eligible for full certification, which is for 36 clock hours
  • Completion of assignments including journaling/reflective practice, readings, cohort projects, and action plans
  • Demonstrate thorough understanding of nature-based education and pedagogy based on training experiences
2) Documentation of teaching requirements OR resume. This will vary depending on whether you work in a licensed setting or a non-licensed or informal setting. For those working in a licensed setting, you may submit completion of early childhood training, often referred to as a 90-hour certification OR the equivalent Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.  This ensures that participants have basic knowledge of early childhood education principles, which is required to work in a licensed setting. For people working in non-formal and unlicensed settings, you may submit a professional resume instead (EX. home school parent, Montessori teacher, college student, outdoor educator, etc.). 

3) Current Infant/Child First Aid and CPR credentials. *Please note that NBTC participants receive a discount on the first aid/CPR course offered by the Institute for WildMed.  Participants also receive a discount on WildMed's wilderness first aid course. 


You must upload these documents to fulfill the certification requirements, so please be sure to have them available if you would like to receive full certification at the conclusion of the training.  We will provide a training certificate to acknowledge either a "certificate of attendance" or "full certification". If you do not meet requirements stated above or some aspect is pending, we will award a certificate of attendance. If you would like the full certification, you may submit outstanding documents up to sixty days following the final day of your course for full certification status. Participants who successfully complete the training and provide required documentation will receive full certification.

Who should attend?

Educators, administrators, and child care providers are ideal participants for the Nature-based Teacher Certification.  Others who could benefit include: parents, camp leaders, church leaders, retired teachers, scout leaders, after school youth programmers, etc. The course is designed for practitioners working in a range of learning environments including nature preschools, forest kindergartens, traditional preschools, public schools, childcare centers, or daycare settings. Participants will consider their unique locations to determine how to make the most of their indoor and outdoor learning environments.

Who are the trainers?

Experienced nature-based educators and naturalists from across the region share their knowledge throughout the course. You can count on outstanding expertise throughout your course experience. Details will be forth-coming for registered participants.

How long is the certification current?

The certification is good for (3) three years from date of completion. After that, you must take the Level 2 certification (good for another three years) or at least 12 clock hours of nature-based training with ANBE each year thereafter to remain current. 

Meals & Accommodations (In-person training experience)

Five-day course includes daily breakfast and lunch, Monday-Friday, with lunch and dinner only on Thursday. You can specify allergies and/or meal preferences when you register. Please be sure to bring your own canteen to use throughout the week. Overnight accommodations are not provided during the five-day course, but occasionally on-site camping is available. Please see the registration page for more details. 

Work Study (Available for In-person training experience)

For those needing financial assistance to attend our in-person course sessions (please also see our scholarship opportunities) we now offer work study volunteer opportunities. Work study volunteers provide support during the course with set-up/clean-up, presenter support, meal preparation, and more. In exchange for volunteer hours, work study volunteers receive a discount on registration fees.  For additional information, please contact our Programs Coordinator at programs@anbe.org.

Payment plans may be available upon request. Once a payment plan is initiated, remaining installments will be deducted automatically. The total tuition balance must be paid in full prior to attending the event. To inquire about a payment plan, please reach out to Jasmine Atkins (jasmine@anbe.org).

About the Training Sites

We select partners that have ample outdoor spaces for our live gatherings and indoor spaces for inclement weather or sessions that may need A/V equipment. If you run a nature-based program or school, we encourage you to contact us as if you'd like to be considered as a potential host site. Each summer we offer one week of training in Baltimore, MD and rotate to offer another week of training in another state. 

Please note that all participants are required to complete this waiver during registration. Our refund policies are found here as well. Additional health precautions will be implemented to safeguard our learning community from the spread of COVID-19 based on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations. For additional information, contact the Program Coordinator, Kirsten Mize.

Spaces are limited and these courses fill! Don't delay if you'd like to join us!

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