Meet Rachael, previously one of our nursery managers, she now works across the group delivering forest schools activities. She’s our very own “Mother Nature”. We recently caught up with Rachael, over some toasted marshmallows, to find out more. Here’s what went down…
“I originally got into the outdoors through Brownies. After Brownies I moved to the 47th Lenton Scout Group where I was the first Girl Scout to achieve the Chief Scout award. My passion for the outdoors ignited. Since then I have achieved a few qualifications:
Early Years Foundation Degree, Early years practice L4, Diploma leadership & management L 4& 5, Diploma in Management L5, Train the trainer, TQUK L3 Education & training, Certificate Forest school programme leadership L3, NVQ L3 Early Years care & education, NVQ L2 Early Years care & education. D32/D33 (A1) assessor award, Certificate in outdoor learning, First aid at work, Paediatric First aid, 16hr Forest school first aid course.
At the moment I’m working with all 11 Cherubs Nurseries to further develop their outdoor spaces. After working at Cherubs Kimberley for some time I thought it was time to spread my forest school’s wings and share what I’ve learned with as many people as possible. There are lots of great things about getting outdoors and I want to ensure that the spaces we have our engaging and exciting for out little Cherubs explorers. I have also been carrying out activity sessions for the children to get involved in, within the local communities. The children really do gain so much from engaging with their outdoor spaces. As well as learning about the natural environment and developing practical skills the sessions provide opportunities for children to develop their self-awareness, social and communication skills and emotional intelligence. Children are given the opportunity to take calculated risks by taking part in tool use, fire-lighting and tree climbing. These opportunities, in turn, will build self-confidence and allow children to learn and develop physical and mental limits.
Parents can further develop these skills at home by getting out and about. Don’t be afraid to explore the great outdoors, your children might even surprise you with the skills they’ve learned from our Cherubs Explorer’s sessions.”
