I currently work as a freelance educator and researcher with a focus on supporting the increasing popularity of Forest School as an alternative outdoor learning vehicle in which to (re)connect learners with nature.  I am a part-time pathway tutor on the International PGCE, with the Tes Institute. I am also a tutor for the Partnership London SCITT, where I teach Forest School sessions to the trainee teacher cohort.

During a long educational career spanning over 24 years, I held roles as a primary school teacher, teacher educator, university lecturer and researcher, writing in the field of the sociology of education, outdoor learning and alternative education.

I have always had a long-term interest in educational social justice and alternative education and spent many years looking at the challenges faced by children from Gypsy/Traveller communities and have published a book in this area based on my PhD: (2018) Schooling and Travelling Communities: Exploring the Spaces of Educational Exclusions, Palgrave macmillan.  One of things that struct me whilst focused on this work was how many children, including those from Travelling communities, often found negotiating the classroom space difficult which led me to an interest in the provision of outdoor education as a vehicle for the development of safe, creative and inclusive learning spaces for all children.  

This interest in outdoor education led me to my current passion in Forest School; a unique learner-led outdoor learning vehicle.  I am keen to explore how Forest School provision in educational settings and groups can promote a learner’s mental health, wellbeing and confidence alongside enabling a (re)connection with nature and the possible development of Education for Sustainability and pro-environmental sensibilities.