SUSSED

THE SUSSED IN THE FOREST PROGRAMME

I work with a group of schools within the New Forest or very close to its boundaries to develop educational projects that both address sustainable issues and encourage responsible citizenship. My work is part funded by the New Forest National Parks Authority’s Sustainable Communities Fund.

Projects that deliver the Eco-Schools agenda can be both creative and innovative. I suggest engaging activities that enable young people to experience the pleasure of learning outside the classroom. I have a commitment to practical hands-on experiential learning. Suggested projects are linked to the curriculum and enable children to become responsible citizens and effective contributors.

I also signpost schools towards groups, organisations or individuals who can provide very specific advice. This might include work with Forest Schools, with the water board or with recycling for instance.

Most schools aim to become ‘Sussed’ by following the Eco-Schools programme or the pathways of Roots and Shoots. Both routes take environmental sustainability as a focus but both acknowledge that people, communities and global citizenship are equally important. Do follow their progress through this website or on Twitter.

ABOUT ME

I am a teacher, a former Head of Department and an environmentalist. I am also an author and a Fellow of the Society of Biology. I bring many years of happy, successful teaching and project management experience to the Sussed in the Forest project.

Having worked with primary and secondary schools in the field of sustainability, I have practical experience of both the thrills and the challenges of pursuing ‘Eco’ in the classroom against a background of a constantly changing curriculum. My last school obtained two Gold Awards from Jane Goodall’s Roots and Shoots, four Eco-Schools Green Flags and was an Ambassador Eco-School.

CONSULTANCY AND WORKSHOPS FOR SCHOOLS OUTSIDE THE SUSSED IN THE FOREST NETWORK

I design and deliver workshops for schools that are not part of the Sussed in the Forest group. I can lead a range of engaging outdoor learning activities, such as building bug hotels, working with willow, identifying flora and fauna with keys, exploring biodiversity and habitats, giving ‘Grow Your Own’ advice on growing fruit, vegetables and wildflowers. Normally I visit schools on my own but where appropriate I work with a colleague.

I am also able to demonstrate and explain techniques such as sampling, pond dipping, the use of keys and identification. I can also show teachers how to create good lesson plans from a 'fun' session outside the classroom.

I have a particular interest in Global Citizenship and facilitate workshops for Fairtrade, Education for All, human rights, climate change or a range of other great global learning projects.

Workshop prices are available on enquiry.