Are you ready for the AlfrescoWild Challenges?
I have taught in the primary sector for over 30 years and I am passionate about connecting children with the nature. I teach outdoor learning, part-time, in a large junior school in Warwickshire.
In Schools
My work in schools spans over my 30+ years as a primary teacher. I currently work 2 days a week at Michael Drayton Junior School; a large junior school in Hartshill, Nuneaton. In the years I have worked there, I have transformed our school grounds into spaces for learning and exploring and to enthuse and excite children about the outdoors. My greatest love is sharing my love and passion for the natural world, with the next generation of naturalists. I also undertake consultancy work in other schools, helping them make the most of school grounds and to learn more about our British wildlife.
From wild spaces, to our Alfresco Outdoor classrooms, a Grow Zone and poly-tunnel, keeping animals and use of local woods, my aim is to make outdoor learning and integral part of the curriculum.
At the height of the pandemic, our outdoor spaces became even more valuable...
We have featured on local news programmes on a number of occasions, with the outdoor work we do at school....
We are proud to have achieved the highest RHS accolade for the work we do at school
RHS FIVE STAR Gardening School
A selection of images showcasing some of the fresh air activities going on in school!
Staff at school have the opportunity to work outside in a variety of spaces. We are also lucky to have Hartshill Hayes right on our doorstep!
Fresh Air Learning Highlights 2021
The Alfresco Garden 2021
Our new Alfresco Garden is coming on a treat!
After finally getting our own polytunnel, we have been growing lots of plants for our garden and the Grow Zone!
New for 2021!
This area is 'The Retreat'
Taken from an unusable derelict space, we are transforming it into a space for quiet reading, contemplation and enjoyment!
From a pond, to wind chimes, hammocks and a swinging chair seat, it is the latest outdoor learning space I have developed with staff and pupils.
The Retreat 2021
We have several Grow Zone beds outside the Year 3 and 4 classrooms that pupils are able to look after and grow their own fruit and vegetables.
The addition of our poly tunnel this year has meant that we have been able to grow a lot more from seed this year!
The Grow Zone 2021
My biggest project at Michael Drayton! Having access to the outdoors and nature is essential for good mental health.
Over the last few years, I have developed a large area of the school grounds into outdoor classrooms. There are three areas for teaching, with whiteboards and seating. Also a range of learning pods, where children can sit to undertake their work.
Surrounded by attractive planting, wild flower meadow and bird feeders, this space creates a wonderful space for learning outside of the classroom.