After being diagnosed with ADHD three years ago, I embarked on a journey to better understand how my brain works. This path included coaching, therapy, a neurodiversity coaching certification course, and a lot of reading—something I had to work hard to do. As a teacher, this personal journey has inspired
When working as an outdoor learning specialist across four international schools (Early Years to Year 6, for three years!), I led countless forest excursions for curriculum-linked tasks. My initial thought? Every child would be thrilled! But the reality wasn’t always that simple. I remember my confusion when some kids didn’t
I often get asked about my approach to learning outdoors. While I’m advocate for hands-on discovery with natural materials, I’ve also enjoyed combining edtech—specifically, the iPad. I find it a useful tool for bridging the gap between the outdoors and the classroom, creating an engaging experience for learners. Here’s how
Our Edinburgh University Outdoor Education MSc cohort recently celebrated our 15-year anniversary, a testament to the powerful community we built and the enduring love for nature that brought us together. Looking back on my time at the University of Edinburgh, one of the best years of my life was spent
I am thrilled to have presented my Wild STEM Outdoor Learning workshop at the ECIS, the Educational Collaborative for International Schools Outdoor Learning Conference 2025! What a truly memorable and wonderful experience connecting with so many inspiring educators passionate about outdoor learning. I was absolutely overjoyed and humbled by the
The suns out!!! It’s the perfect time to take learning outdoors! Today, our brilliant KS1 EAL(English ad a second language) learners embarked on an exciting alphabet hunt across the playground! But the fun didn’t stop there! We brought the learning full circle by using our trusty phonics disks to build
All packed and ready to present at the ECIS Outdoor Learning Conference 2025 in Dusseldorf. I’m thrilled to be sharing my Outdoor Learning #STEM workshop this weekend.The aim of this workshop is to share ideas for #engaging outdoor STEM activities that can be adapted to the unique environmental context and
Watching my daughter stare in wide-eyed wonder at the great outdoors fills me with a teacher’s resolve. This natural connection, blossoming at such a young age, must be nurtured. In our fast-paced world, many children lack regular access to nature. Busy schedules, urban living, and safety concerns can create a
Thank you, ECIS, the Educational Collaborative for International Schools and HSV International School, for the opportunity to present a workshop at the #ECISOUTDOORLEARNING conference 2025 at International School of Dusseldorf, 09-10 May. I very much look forward to presenting my Wild STEM workshop at the same time, learning from some
Do you have neurodivergent students struggling to focus in the classroom? An option that could help is to get outdoors! Research shows that outdoor learning is great for all kids. 👉Learning outside is not just about fresh air and fun. It also helps: 🌱Reduce stress and anxiety: Nature’s calming influence
Thanks, Vesna Radivojevic, Ed.D. and Esther Geke Drewes for asking me to speak to your fantastic students Master International Teacher Education (NHL Stenden). It is always a pleasure to discuss ideas with the future generation of educators and change makers.
The KS2 children had a wonderful time learning about their class book “The Hobbit” while designing and growing their own “Shire” inspired gardens. Benefits of minianture gardens: 1.Hands-on learning: Develops fine motor skills and observation abilities. 2.STEM education: Explore plant life cycles, ecosystems, and geology. 3.Creativity: Encourages imaginative play and