Where Nature Meets Nurture: A Therapeutic Approach to Forest School & Bushcraft in Rough Castle Woods near the Falkirk Wheel Servicing Falkirk District, across the Forth Valley and beyond.
At Well Wild, I believe that being outdoors and active is an essential part of growing up and living a healthy, fulfilled life. My unique approach combines therapeutic techniques with Forest School and Bushcraft principles to create enriching outdoor learning experiences for children, young people, and adults alike.
With a career spanning three decades, the founder has extensive experience working in diverse environments, including local authorities, voluntary projects, addiction teams, additional support teams, mental health services, the NHS, and criminal justice. This broad background has equipped me with the skills and understanding to work effectively with individuals who may have ADHD or other learning difficulties. I also proudly support the Duke of Edinburgh programme and have a rich history in youth work.
I believe that when you start working with people rather than for people, life becomes more meaningful. This philosophy drives everything I do at Well Wild. With over 20 years in this field, I am passionate about fostering personal growth and development through outdoor, child-centred learning experiences.
Not every classroom has four walls…
I’m passionate about the great outdoors and believe it’s the perfect setting for young people to build trust and feel valued. As a Woodlands Skills and Forest School practitioner, I focus on helping learners engage with nature, build resilience, and reach their full potential. I think outdoor learning is the best way to encourage exploration, build positive relationships, and develop unique skills while connecting with nature.
Forest School is all about child-centred, hands-on learning in a natural setting. It’s a long-term program that supports play, exploration, and safe risk-taking, helping kids build confidence and self-esteem. The activities can include building dens, cooking over a fire, exploring nature, crafting, and using tools like saws and drills. I tailor activities to each child's abilities and interests, encouraging them to try new things and develop independent learning skills.
Bushcraft is all about using skills to survive and thrive in nature. It covers essentials like finding food, purifying water, building shelters, and making fires. I also get into things like twine-making, wood-carving, and natural navigation. I handle tools like knives and axes to create everything from shelters to dugout canoes.
Ranging from small groups of 8 up to 16 ( 16 adults need to be accompanied ) Individual therapeutic sessions suited to children’s needs 1-2-1 , or 2-1 (2 children) Family Sessions- Woodland bush craft skills
I cater to small groups ranging from 8 to 16 people, ensuring personalised attention and a supportive environment. All programs are carefully planned following Education Scotland’s Curriculum for Excellence, ensuring comprehensive educational coverage while adhering to the core values of Bushcraft and Forest School, GIRFEC, and outdoor learning principles.
Explore the great outdoors with Well Wild and discover the transformative power of nature-based learning. Whether it’s building dens, cooking over a fire, or crafting with natural materials, my programs are designed to help learners of all ages connect with nature, build resilience, and achieve their full potential.
Ready to start your journey with Well Wild? Reach out to me today to learn more about my programs and how I can help you or your loved ones grow through the wonders of nature.
