I have had a wonderful time working in early years in Camden for the last 20 years in mainstream schools and children's centres. Although I could have gone on doing the job forever, I felt there was something missing.

I am passionate about creativity, exploration, and learning through play and although I love the amount of creative opportunity and freedom you get in an early years setting, I felt I had more to give, right across the primary age range. I was also always drawn to the potential of outdoor learning.

I trained as a Forest School leader 7 years ago and it was a major epiphany! At last I had found a way to offer this freedom and creativity in combination with a deep connection with nature I had always had inside me. Since qualifying as a Forest School leader I have expanded my teaching role and worked with children across the primary age range, in various settings, in and out of school.

Many, many moons ago, my first career was in Theatre Design which sounds a world away from teaching. However the skills I acquired then mean that I thrive on problem-solving and practical challenges and have a resourceful, resilient nature, all very useful for teaching, particularly Forest School. I am also a proud Mum to two teenagers.

Working at Wildwood feels like it was meant to be. A way of combining all of my skills and experience into one. I am very excited to be taking on the role of Lead Teacher working with the wonderful staff team. It already feels like a very special place to be.