I am a qualified forest school teacher and I cannot emphasise enough, the dramatic change I see in the children I support, especially those who are quieter or on the autistic spectrum. Child-led learning outdoors is the way forward.
I assume a low child to teacher ratio. Plus you would be surprised how much small children absorb. They are most likely taught the “hug a tree” principle when lost. That prevents lost children from wandering around. Wandering further when lost is the one of the main reason it takes longer to find people who simply lost the trail
Preparation is the key. Teach children to go about in pairs with a buddy, practice using a whistle as a recall signal and discuss with them what to do if they get lost. I haven't lost one yet in 21 years of Scouts and out-door learning. Good luck.
