I decided to become a teacher after working for many years in the script department at the BBC. I loved working with children, seeing the world from their perspective, and I wanted a job that would be rewarding. That was 16 years ago, and I have never looked back! I spent several years teaching in both mainstream and SEN schools, and I have always enjoyed finding new, creative ways to inspire the children I work with. I love supporting children on their personal learning journeys and feel very lucky to share my passions with them, including the expressive arts, singing, dancing and drama. I also love spendingtime outdoors and immersing myself in nature, which has led me to become a Forest School Leader. It is a privilege to share this passion with the children at The Windmill School, inspiring them to look carefully at the natural world around them and notice how positive being outside makes us feel.
Forest School is a long-term, child-centred educational process that takes place in woodland or natural environments through regular, frequent sessions.
Defined by six core principles agreed upon in 2011, it focuses on the holistic development of the individual, fostering resilience, confidence, independence, and creative thinking. Unlike traditional classroom settings, the outdoors provides a dynamic space where learners develop physical, social, cognitive, communicative, and emotional skills at their own pace.
Sessions are facilitated by a qualified Practitioner who maintains a high staff-to-learner ratio and holds up-to-date outdoor first aid certificates. The approach is particularly beneficial for autistic children as it supports sensory processing, emotional regulation, and social skills through hands-on experiences and "beneficial risk". By responding to learners' unique needs and interests, Forest School creates a community where everyone can discover their strengths and experience the joy of learning in nature.
I decided to become a teacher after working for many years in the script department at the BBC. I loved working with children, seeing the world from their perspective, and I wanted a job that would be rewarding. That was 16 years ago, and I have never looked back! I spent several years teaching in both mainstream and SEN schools, and I have always enjoyed finding new, creative ways to inspire the children I work with. I love supporting children on their personal learning journeys and feel very lucky to share my passions with them, including the expressive arts, singing, dancing and drama. I also love spendingtime outdoors and immersing myself in nature, which has led me to become a Forest School Leader. It is a privilege to share this passion with the children at The Windmill School, inspiring them to look carefully at the natural world around them and notice how positive being outside makes us feel.