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Raw Learning is dedicated to providing therapeutic and well-being-focused education in a natural, outdoor setting. Our core mission is to help neurodivergent children, suspected or diagnosed, especially those who have struggled in a traditional educational environment build self-esteem, confidence and independence through self-discovery and connection with nature. This means our work directly contributes to meaningful, positive change in the lives of children who need it most.
Our commitment to well-being is at the heart of everything Raw Learning does. The focus is on emotional and mental health before academics, ensuring that children feel safe, valued, and heard. This approach fosters emotional intelligence, resilience and self-confidence, and creates a nurturing environment where both children and staff can thrive. As Director and Founder, I get to lead a team that prioritises happiness, mental health, and holistic development.
As the Director of Raw Learning, my biggest dream for the children would be for every child who has experienced anxiety, and barriers in traditional educational settings, to discover their confidence, self-worth and love of learning in a nurturing, natural environment.
Over my years of teaching, I became very aware that there were many children who struggled within the confines and structure of the classroom – it just didn’t suit their way of learning. I love the freedom working at Raw Learning gives to put the needs of each individual first and teach in the way that suits them, following their lead in what excites them and what they want to find out about and explore.
I joined Raw Learning as I have observed in my previous role where children have struggled within the classroom environment, children who have struggled focussing or are quiet indoors will often flourish in the Forest School environment. They are able to enjoy the freedom and space. The learning is very hands on and practical and supports them with their learning. The children are able to grow in confidence and their self esteem builds week after week in Forest School and helps them build a clearer sense of who they are and what they can do.
For every child to be healthy and happy, to have skills and confidence to explore and venture out into the world to be able to play and learn. To achieve and be successful to the best of their abilities.
Having worked in school settings over the years I had began to notice how more and more children were beginning to find the constraints of a busy, noisy and sometimes the unrealistic expectations of a classroom an uphill challenge. Having a passion myself for being outdoors I decided to study to become a Forest Leader with the hope that I could make a difference to the way that students learn. Children begin to flourish in a classroom without walls and can gain confidence, resilience and enjoy the freedom to just be themselves, this is exactly what I love about Raw Learning.
Learning outdoors was the norm up until relatively recently where, for some bizarre reason, education moved indoors and became confined to rows of desks and chalk and talk. What could be better than shaking off these constraints of the ‘typical’ classroom. The freedom of working outdoors in the elements is enlivening and in turn releases serotonin, producing feelings of well-being, happiness and safety; all essential states for learning. Raw is a caring and nurturing community which encourages the inquisitive mind, celebrates the individual and hears their voice. What is not to get excited about?
The ‘mass education’ system we now have imposes too many restrictions and pressures on our children. I wish for the joy to be put back into learning. That a child’s potential, goals, dreams and individuality be at the core of education. Not whether they have passed a test and have a number.
I love that I’m a part of something so new and inspirational, helping to make positive changes in the lives of neurodivergent children. Creating a safe space where children can take the time to switch off from the noise and learn how to be themselves with no judgement is so valuable and it’s exciting to be a part of the team that are offering these unique opportunities.
My biggest dream for education for children would be that every child has the opportunity to experience learning in an environment where they feel safe, comfortable, confident and listened to, where their physical and emotional needs are met and they can enjoy the joy of learning at their own pace, following their own interests.
Seeing the children and young people we meet grow in confidence and skills week by week. As a Mum with lived experience of SEND, being alongside our learners in an environment where they can truly be themselves is a huge privilege.
For school culture to prioritise compassion in all interactions, and for the approach to learning to prioritise children’s passions and perspective. Our learners prove this approach works across behaviour, learning and emotional development. This is the treatment adults have come to expect in modern employment – children deserve compassion and joy too.
I truly look forward to my sessions at Raw Learning. Each day brings a different energy and experience and I love being part of a team of friendly and supportive people who are making a positive difference to children’s lives and their families.
It’s my dream for all children to feel safe, happy and secure, and for them to grow up in an environment where they are understood and accepted for their differences.
I yearn for personalised and holistic educational environments that support the child’s individual needs whilst encouraging curiosity, creativity and a desire to learn.
