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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Starting your LEAF award

How do I register for LEAF?

Complete our registration form to sign up. LEAF is an annual programme following the school year. You need to register by October to take part in this year’s programme. 

Registration for this year's LEAF programme has now closed. Registration will reopen for the 2025/26 academic year in August 2025. Our LEAF resources are free to use whether you are registered for the programme or not. 

Our establishment is in the middle of a city, can we still take part in LEAF?

Yes, definitely. We welcome interest from schools in all locations. There is always greenspace to be found, even in the most urban of environments. You do not need to be located near to a forest, or even trees, to take part in LEAF.

How long does it take to gain a LEAF award?

It takes one year to gain a LEAF Award. The Award programme starts with the new school year, with applications due by 31st July.

Gaining your LEAF award

Do I need to choose a Theme to follow?

Yes. You need to choose at least one Theme that most of your aims and actions fit into. You can choose more than one Theme if that works better for your setting. See our Themes page for more details.

How many actions do I need to receive my LEAF award?

You need a minimum of three actions for your LEAF award. These actions must cover the following areas:

  • Progress in learning taking place outside
    • This can be within or outside the school grounds
  • More opportunities for pupils to connect with nature
    • This can be in any greenspace you have access to
  • Learning about forest-based ecosystems
    • This includes tree-based ecosystems in urban and rural environments, marine forests and micro-forests (moss and lichen)

See our How to Guide for more details.

Do we have to submit a draft Action Plan for approval?

No, we will not be assessing draft Action Plans. If you are not sure if your plans meet the requirements of the LEAF Award, please contact us at leaf@keepscotlandbeautiful.org

Is there a deadline for submission of Award applications?

Yes, you need to submit your application by 31st July to receive your Award. We understand that unforeseen circumstances may impact your ability to submit your application on time. If that is the case, please contact us about an extension.

Starting your next LEAF award

We’ve just received our LEAF award, when do we start another application?

At the start of a next academic year. You can start some preliminary work over the summer break if you wish. You will need to register each year that your want to complete a LEAF Award.

How long does my LEAF award last?

A LEAF award is valid for one year, after which we would expect to see a renewed award application.

What happens if I don’t renew my LEAF award within one year?

If you are a bit behind with applying for your LEAF renewal, you can let us know and we may be able to grant you a short extension to help you finalise your submission. If you stop the LEAF programme completely, your award will no longer be valid and you will need to re-join the programme at the start of the next school year.

Who do we contact for help and support?

Please email leaf@keepscotlandbeautiful.org with any questions or support requirements. We are always happy to help, so please do not hesitate to contact us.

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