“Striking gold is how we felt when we discovered the nature play sessions by trees & seas in craigmillar woods. Our daughter is almost 2 and has thoroughly enjoyed these wonderful woodland play sessions each week since she turned 18 months old. Outdoor sessions for babies and toddlers are so rare but highly sought after, so we were over the moon when we discovered that these were on offer in our local community; and were also free of charge as we reside in the Inch area.” Nature Play Parent
“My son simply loves Forest School Fridays. I can really see that spending time in nature is so good for him. He enjoys all the adventures and experiences Forest school offers to him, and of course hot chocolate and marshmallows around the fire. We are so grateful to Jill for setting up this forest school, she is doing such a great job and the kids love her.” Parent
“Almost 18 months ago I stumbled across ‘Trees and Seas’ online whilst desperately searching for something affordable for my high energy son, little did I know how much of a lifeline we had been given! The fun he has during the sessions carries him through the week when things feel tough and I have no doubt that the skills he is learning in a child centred way will stay with him for life.“ Christophers Mum
When asked what he thinks about forest school Christopher said “Friday is my favourite day of the week. When I get to forest school and see my guys I feel so happy inside. Sometimes I get there and take a deep breath and I feel much better” Christopher aged 8
“I love forest school because I love to go into the forest. I like playing with sticks and climbing and the barbeque. We even make pizzas!” Session attendee, age 6
“I think Trees and Seas is good because I like exploring and being around trees with other children. Jill has good adventures!” Session attendee, age 7
“Jill is hugely and equally motivated to teach children how to enjoy the outdoors in a safe but unlimited environment and to build a company and service that is inclusive for the community and underprivileged.
Whilst on a sabbatical between roles, I have had the pleasure to volunteer at Trees and Seas and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. To see so many children enjoy being outside (rain, hail or shine) where we played games, built dens and fires and were also mentally and physically stimulated was incredibly satisfying!” Volunteer
“Outdoor learning helps develop the skills of enquiry, critical thinking and reflection necessary for our children and young people to meet the social, economic and environmental challenges of life in the 21st century. Outdoor learning connects children and young people with the natural world, with our built heritage and our culture and society, and encourages lifelong involvement and activity in Scotland’s outdoors.” Curriculum for Excellence through Outdoor Learning, 2010