I have been fortunate to spend over 20 years working in education, with a background supporting children with Special Educational Needs across both primary and secondary settings. My journey has included roles as a mainstream SENCO, Head of a Specialist Speech and Language Centre, Deputy Head of a primary school in a specialist setting, and 1:1 intervention teacher supporting children with Autism. Throughout my career, I have worked closely with families at the point of diagnosis, helping them navigate next steps and school placements with care and understanding.

In these roles, I have also worked in partnership with Surrey County Council, contributed to placement panels, and supported decision-making processes to ensure children receive provision that best meets their individual needs.

In 2018, I trained as a Forest School Leader, which gave me the opportunity to develop a more personalised, child-centred approach to learning—one that truly values each child’s pace, interests, and wellbeing. Combining this with my love of nature and life on our family farm, Forest School felt like the perfect way to bring learning to life in a more meaningful, grounded, and nurturing way.

Sessions were initially launched within the primary school where I taught, supporting children from ages 2 to 11, as well as offering teacher training sessions. More recently, I have worked with a local charity, running 1:1 and small group sessions supporting children up to the age of 18.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with so many children and families, and this has shaped my belief that every child thrives when they are truly seen, heard, and valued as an individual.

I am deeply passionate about creating learning experiences that are personal, meaningful, and responsive to each child. Forest School offers exactly that—time, space, and freedom to explore in a way that feels right for them. It is a joy to support children in this natural, child-led environment where confidence and curiosity can grow at their own pace.

I continue to develop my practice through ongoing training, including the Certificate in Therapeutic Forest Schools, building on my long-standing commitment to supporting children who have experienced trauma or additional challenges.

At the heart of everything I do is a simple belief: relationships come first. Taking the time to truly know each child, build trust, and understand what helps them feel safe and confident is where real growth begins. At Merrywood Farm, children are free to be themselves, explore at their own pace, and develop resilience and self-belief through meaningful experiences in nature, alongside animals, and within a calm, nurturing space.

Emma Pope – Forest School Leader