"Freedom and Belonging"

Founder and Managing Director nickie@mud-pies.co.uk I started Mud Pies in 2011 after working in the women’s refuge sector and a short stay in mainstream education. I became a qualified Forest School Leader in 2013. I’ve loved my 25+ years of working with children with additional needs, including academic research into the needs of traumatised children. I am wholeheartedly focused on creating play based opportunities for connecting children with nature, communities and their authentic selves.

I came to Mud Pies through a childhood spent living in a treehouse and a career in outdoor activities (high ropes, archery). In the spring of 2022 I started Mud Pies Newport so Wales can have some Forest School love too!

Forest School Leader - I joined the team in 2020 when I decided to get my Forest School Leader qualification. I grew up in the countryside so I always had plenty of space outside to play and explore, and I know it had a great positive impact on me. I wanted to help provide a space where children can have similar experiences that I had as a child and them feel connected to their environment.

Trainee Forest School Leader I’m a Trainee Forest School Leader with an absolute passion for Children’s wellbeing. I have been assisting with our SEND and preschool groups for over a year. I’m continually amazed with the magic that Forest school brings. Seeing the children develop resilience, confidence and making such a strong nature connection brings joy to my heart.

I grew up enjoying playing in nature, especially climbing in trees and doing hands-on investigative exploration. I am currently training in rock climbing and wrestling, then in my spare time I help out with FS groups, which I really love!

Outdoor Learning Support My journey with MPE started back in March 2018. I love nature, am a qualified wildlife conservationist (BSc Hons) and an animal lover. I hope to inspire our little Explorers to connect with nature, feel the benefits it provides, help them gain transferable skills, and get the most of their time outside. Some of my favourite activities to do with the kids are bug hunting in the meadow, look for wild animals prints, explore the woods and making fire!

Director I am really proud to say that I’ve been part of Mud Pies since the very beginning, in 2011. As a teacher of 27 years and sharing Nickie’s passion to get children outside and exploring, becoming a Director at Mud Pies was an easy decision for me. Watching the company grow and fulfill our original intentions to bring nature to as many children as possible, has been a real honour. Mud Pies does something that no other Forest school company does…

Director I’ve always been passionate about children playing in nature and spent many happy days with my children playing in the woods. I try to get out amongst the trees everyday, theres nothing better. When I found out that Mud Pies were looking for a new Director, I jumped at the chance, its amazing to hear about how the team are impacting lives everyday.

Director I work in health and safety with a focus on countryside settings. I am passionate about children getting out into nature, not only having a fantastic, healthy time but learning important risk management skills. I absolutely love the ethos of Mud Pies and being part of the wonderful team.