Meet The Team

Jack has been working with children for over twenty five years. Prior to launching The Woodshed, she owned and operated the longest running 'Outstanding' residential unit for children in the whole of the UK. It was through this work as a qualified social worker she realised the transformative, lifelong impact of the Forest school model. Jack loves all things outdoors. She has kept and bred Boxer's for many years, enjoys wild camping and has her boat captains licence

Chris has managed a variety of childcare settings for over twenty years that include a children's home, out of school club and a nursery. He holds qualifications in play, social work, is a forest school leader and early years practitioner. He was instrumental in setting up The Woodshed. 

'I have observed first hand, the enormous and lifelong impact of the forest school model for both children and adults. I have a passion for bushcraft and foraging.'

Lisa has worked in nurseries for over five years. She holds a level 3 early years educator qualification. She is passionate about literacy in early years (particularly story scribing). Lisa spends her weekends foraging for wild mushrooms and other edible delights. She lives in a camper van and has an interest in nature photography. 'My dream is to live outside in the woods. The forest truly makes you feel alive'.

Lorraine has been working with children and young people for over twenty five years. She holds a level 3 Early years educator qualification. Lorraine has been here since the inception of The Woodshed. 'I have a real passion for music and singing. I play the guitar at every opportunity, encouraging children's creativity through expression, movement, rhyme and song. Music brings a lot of joy and fun into our daily lives'.

Natalie has worked in the childcare and education sector for over twenty years. She holds a level 3 Early years care and education qualification. She has worked in day nurseries, a primary school and has also volunteered at a special needs provision that works with animals. Natalie believes children should spend more time outside immersed in nature and is passionate about the holistic benefits of the forest school model. Natalie is an accomplished arial acrobat.

Morgan has worked in nurseries for over five years. She holds a level 3 Early years qualification. She loves to sing (especially Disney tunes) and dance with the children. Morgan took the leap from an indoor nursery where she was room leader and has never looked back. 'Children are completely different in our outdoor setting. They are calm and work together to achieve their shared goals'. She also holds qualifications in face painting and scuba diving.

Liz has a lifetime of experience working in the education and childcare sector. She has had a varied career having worked in a children's home, play group, nursery and has also been an NVQ assessor. She holds an NNEB and level 3 Training and development vocational award. Liz was a foster carer for many years. She is a keen gardener and loves to cook on the campfire.

Rosie is not just a dog; she's an integral part of The Woodshed. With her friendly demeanor and boundless energy, Rosie creates a sense of joy and adventure. Whether she's accompanying us on nature walks, providing a comforting presence on base camp, or simply enjoying some playtime, Rosie embodies the spirit of exploration and connection to the natural world. 

Mike is a long standing member of The Woodshed team.  He holds a level 3 qualification in Health and social care. Mike prepares all of the food at The Woodshed. He prepares, cooks and delivers a hot meal for us everyday for lunch. His bread making skills are treasured the world over (well....The Woodshed at least). 'I love to greet the children each morning as they arrive on the trailer. It's an absolute joy to see the children be wild and free'. 

Steve is a founding member of The Woodshed staff team. He is our accounting professional, having provided strategic advice and guidance since the inception of the nursery. Steve has over twenty five years experience in the childcare and education sector. He often cooks the team a curry on our team building days however, the food comes with a warning as he has no limits when adding chillies. He enjoys fishing off the Kent coast and recently caught six skate in one session.

Jules has worked with many of the team, for many a year. He holds a level 3 qualification in Health and social care as well as a degree in History. Jules provides the back office support and is usually the person to answer any queries, issue invoices and provide technical support to the team. Jules enjoys lengthy hikes that incorporate points of historical interest