THERAPEUTIC FOREST SCHOOL LEADER

ABOUT ME

Hello! My name is Mary and I am a Forest School Leader. I also work as a therapeutic teacher and I love to write.

Before I trained as a teacher I worked in a bookshop. I still love books more than anything, except perhaps trees!

My favourite books are ones that make me laugh and feel a sense of connection with the characters.

My favourite trees are birch, beech and oak. I enjoy noticing the way they change over time, both through the seasons and over the course of their lives. I also love the way each tree has their own unique shape and character!

I don’t mind getting my hands dirty but I’m not a fan of wind in my ears. I always cover them with a buff or a hat.

I communicate with my voice, using words. I use gestures and facial expressions too. I prefer talking in small groups or with one person at a time. Big groups of people can make my brain feel tired!

When I was at school I found numbers difficult, and I still do. My maths teacher thought I had a condition called dyscalculia, which means my brain struggles to visualise numbers and symbols. I sometimes need extra time for certain tasks that involve numbers, like working out dates and times.

I have a condition called hEDS which means my ligaments, skin and tissues are extra stretchy. This can be a bonus during yoga classes, but it also brings some extra challenges, like pain and fatigue. My bendy fingers are great for playing finger puppets but some jobs can be tricky for them, like untying knots or carrying heavy things.

I can find it hard to regulate my body temperature which means I feel the cold more than most people. When I’m outside in the winter I wear lots of layers and I usually have a hot water bottle with me. I’m a good person to ask if you need help warming up, as I’ve got lots of tips and tricks up my sleeve!

I love spending time walking and sitting in nature, listening to sounds and watching the birds.

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