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Who We Are
We are a Forest School project for Primary School children based in Edinburgh.
We began our outdoor learning path in 2017 separately, when we both got involved in some outdoor learning sessions for two Edinburgh nurseries. We did some short training with the former manager of one of these nurseries, where we learned some basic ideas and concepts of Forest School.
One of the favorite experiences of the 3-5 year old children who took part on those sessions was climbing a hill which, specially in Winter, would always get very muddy. The children had started calling that hill muddy mountains since even before we joined them in such amazing experiences. Observing the young children climbing with so much determination and getting really muddy was undoubtedly a before and an after in our short experiences as outdoor learning practitioners. Understanding the incredible benefits they got from those experiences, was even beyond that.
But every coin always has two sides. And the darker side of our coin is to see how numerous children starting P1 always get very disappointed when they find out there is not any Nature School sessions once they leave nursery forever. Inspired by other similar examples in Scotland and UK, one day we started discussing about how we could adapt these sessions for Primary School, so more children would not have to stop enjoying the benefits from learning in the wild. We received a really positive feedback when we shared our thoughts and ideas with other colleagues and parents and they constantly encouraged us to carry out our project. A few weeks later, we enrolled in a Forest and Outdoor Learning Award Level 3 with Aline Hill and Kate Walters and in Spring 2020 Muddy Mountains Forest School was officially born.
Guille & Iván
(Forest School leaders and co-founders of Muddy Mountains)
"The best classroom and the richest classroom is roofed only by the sky."
Margaret McMillan
What We Do
We hold flexi-schooling Forest School sessions every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 2/3pm at Blackford Hill and Hermitage of Braid nature reserve (Edinburgh). and Firrhill Cres. We also do short Forest School holiday clubs during October, Easter and Summer breaks.
We currently have four groups in total:
- Wednesday Group - 9am to 2pm - Firrhill Cres (woodland next to Braidburn Primary School/Barnardo's Scotland).
- Thursday Group - 9am to 3pm - Blackford Hill & Hermitage of Braid.
- 2 x Friday Groups - 9am to 3pm - Blackford Hill & Hermitage of Braid
The groups are composed of a maximum of 12 children and we accept children from P1 to P7.
All the groups are full at the moment, but if you want to join the waiting list, all you need to do is fill the form below and let us know which day/group you are interested in.
Forest School is an inspirational process, that offers all learners regular opportunities to achieve, and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands-on learning experiences outdoors. The good practice principles of Forest School outlined by the Forest School Association (FSA) are that:
1. Forest School is a long-term process of frequent and regular sessions in a woodland or natural environment, rather than a one-off visit. Planning, adaptation, observations and reviewing are integral elements of Forest School.
2. Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural wooded environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.
3. Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
4. Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.
5. Forest School is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.
6. Forest School uses a range of learner-centered processes to create a community for development and learning.
Ethos
In Muddy Mountains FS we believe all children should have consistent, long-term access to a woodland or natural environment, throughout the year, in all seasons and weathers. Forest School is based on a child-led approach, where children (and staff) can have the experience to learn through free, self-guided play and exploration.
All participants will be given the opportunity to develop their sense of freedom, curiosity, confidence, self-esteem, creativity, empathy, sense of community, communication skills, knowledge and understanding of the natural environment and ability to assess, manage and enjoy risk. Depending upon the children’s interests, ages and skills, there will always be a diverse range of activities and experiences, which constantly challenge and motivate learners throughout their whole journey. These activities include wildlife exploration, natural art and craft, tree and hill climbing, campfires, foraging, free play, exploration and wandering, storytelling and games.
Aims
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Learn and grow through play, joy and freedom.
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Experience a healthy enjoyment as a result of spending regular hours playing in an open natural environment.
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Promote respect and care for the natural environment and gain a sense of community and belonging.
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Feel nurtured, trusted and confident during and after Forest School sessions.
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Experience opportunities for independence and freedom, with space and time to explore and follow curiosities and interests.
-
Experience opportunities to develop skills in the assessment and management of risk, to challenge their physical skills and gain a sense of achievement.
Ethos
In Muddy Mountains FS we believe all children should have consistent, long-term access to a woodland or natural environment, throughout the year, in all seasons and weathers. Forest School is based on a child-led approach, where children (and staff) can have the experience to learn through free, self-guided play and exploration.
All participants will be given the opportunity to develop their sense of freedom, curiosity, confidence, resilience, self-esteem, creativity, empathy, sense of community, communication skills, knowledge and understanding of the natural environment and ability to assess, manage and enjoy risk. Depending upon the children’s interests, ages and skills, there will always be a diverse range of activities and experiences, which constantly challenge and motivate learners throughout their whole journey. These activities include wildlife exploration, natural art and craft, tree and hill climbing, campfires, foraging, free play, exploration and wandering, storytelling and games.
Aims
-
Learn and grow through play, joy and freedom.
-
Experience a healthy enjoyment as a result of spending regular hours playing in an open natural environment.
-
Promote respect and care for the natural environment and gain a sense of community and belonging.
-
Feel nurtured, trusted and confident during and after Forest School sessions.
-
Experience opportunities for independence and freedom, with space and time to explore and follow curiosities and interests.
-
Experience opportunities to develop skills in the assessment and management of risk, to challenge their physical skills and gain a sense of achievement.
What is flexi-schooling?
Find out more about at:
https://www.gov.scot/publications/home-education-guidance/
About Us
Iván
With a background in filmmaking and videography, I began to work as an Early Years Practitioner in 2017, after I became I father for the first time, and I have been leading outdoor learning sessions with 3-5 year old ever since.
Observing how children learn and grow when they play freely in the wild and sharing those experiences with them is simply one of the most rewarding purposes I could possibly think of.
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Val
Val completed her Forest School Leader qualification in November 2023. She enjoys being outdoors connecting with nature, working as part of a community and helping others. She loves trail running and hiking and is at her happiest on woodland paths and at the top of hills. Mum to three kids, she also runs a local Cubs group, and when she has spare time she tries to do some yoga!
Guille
I have worked with and learned alongside children since I was 18 years old. I first qualified as a PE teacher, combining my passion for sport with my love for teaching. In 2015 I decided to start a 'new life' in Scotland, where I have found my place working as an Early Years Practitioner.
My love for the Scottish outdoors and watching children learn in natural environments encouraged me to pursue the next step and gain my Forest School leader qualification.
Emily
I am Emily, here to pursue my love for both childcare and the environment after studying bits of both! In my free time I am a classical singer and adore writing, drawing and making videos! I have dreams of publishing children's literature and a poetry collection and am super passionate about mental wellbeing and helping people. I hope I can make your experience with Muddy Mountains as bright as possible, welcome to our family!
Lucy
Hi! I’m Lucy. I’m a qualified Forest School leader and have been running groups since 2019—a role that perfectly combines two things I absolutely love: working with children and exploring nature. I’m also a big fan of crafting, reading, hiking, leisurely cycling, wild swimming with friends, and birds (especially birds)! I believe learning should be filled with curiosity, laughter, and a bit of magic. I’m here to help children discover that joy in the great outdoors.