Forest School Sundays have moved from St Mary's Vale, Sugarloaf to Linda Vista Gardens, from 15th March.

Forest School Sundays have moved from St Mary's Vale, Sugarloaf to Linda Vista Gardens, from 15th March.

Welcome to Wild Dawn

Rooted in nature, growing through connection.

We’re a Community Interest Company offering nature connection for people in Monmouthshire & surrounding areas. Sessions are lead by Hattie, a qualified Level 3 Forest School Leader, with 8 years of experience in working with children in play, education & support settings.

Born from a passion for holistic, child-centred play & learning, Wild Dawn’s a response to the growing need for wellbeing- focused, screen- free outdoor spaces and human connection.

We aim to grow a supportive, inclusive community and believe in the transformative power of spending quality time in nature, where people can learn, play and grow at their own pace, without fear of judgement or expectation.

Our Vision

All of our sessions are guided by the Forest School ethos and the key principles set out by the Forest School Association. We’re striving to offer equitable, sustainable opportunities for all, and for sessions to be available for families facing barriers to nature connection.

Key pillars which underpin our vision are:

  1. A dedication to enhancing the learning and development of everyone accessing our service, inc children, adults & our team. We believe in the power of being open to learning new approaches & adapting, to strengthen our practice and empower individuals.

  2. We’ve become increasingly disconnected from natural environments, with each other and ourselves. We strongly advocate for connection and believe it’s key to physical health & wellbeing.

  3. We’re deeply connected with nature and believe that time spent outdoors form positive memories, which last a lifetime.

Forest School Sessions

Birthday Parties

Nature Connection

Dinner & Painting Over Fire

Home - Ed/Flexi Learning

Forest School Sessions Birthday Parties Nature Connection Dinner & Painting Over Fire Home - Ed/Flexi Learning

What is forest School?

Forest School is a child-led, play-based approach to learning, which takes place in natural environments, all year round. Unlike classroom settings, sessions are lead by learners and guided by qualified practitioners, who observe and respond to individual needs.

We encourage children to be independent and follow their own interests, take appropriate risks which instills confidence & resilience. This helps learners to better navigate the natural twists and turns of life. Research reflects that time spent in nature has reduces anxiety (+ cortisol levels), improves emotional regulation and boosts well-being.

It also supports brain development, particularly in areas such as attention, memory, and executive functioning. As environmental psychologist Dr. Ming Kuo explains, “Exposure to natural environments, such as those found in Forest School settings, can enhance attention span, improve problem-solving abilities, and boost academic performance.”

To discuss the benefits of nature connection/Forest School in more detail, speak to Hattie.

Testimonials

  • Parent

    “The boys and I have been to a number of forest schools and this is definitely the best one we ever been too. In such an incredible location with great views and historic woodland. Hattie captures the children’s imagination especially on the magical woodland walks with fairy doors and enchanted elephant tree! Thank you L, F and T x”

  • Parent

    “We had a magical time at the under 5s session. My son loved it and has repeatedly asked to go back to “Mountain School” since we left. It was a well planned mix of free time and activities, very beautiful and engaging materials for little hands and Hattie and helper were patient, inspiring and informative for the children.”

  • Parent

    “From the moment we arrived Hattie's energy and enthusiasm was infectious, my nearly 4yo was completely engrossed in adventuring, exploring, asking questions and getting his hands dirty. Everything about the session was super entertaining- such a variety of activities and plenty of free play too. As a parent I also felt relaxed and re-energized after spending a few quality hours in such beautiful surroundings and getting involved in some of the fun. Incredible value for money and a wonderful activity for kids to learn and grow. We'll definitely be back!”

  • Forest Educator

    “The way Hattie communicates with children is so inspiring. She tries to let them talk and think. With the beautiful environment in the forest, not only children but adults feel so free and rejuvenated.”

  • Parent

    “Lovely first session… I was unsure about a session that I stayed with N but we lay in a hammock forest bathing and it was bliss! Would never otherwise carve time for this; thank you Hattie x”

  • Parent

    “I attended with my son, an experienced forest school regular. I found the time there absorbing and really enjoyable. The atmosphere was very friendly, relaxed, but respectful of the surrounding. The activities were equally chilled and I found myself happily absorbed in them. Overall a thoroughly well spent few hours.”

  • Parent

    “My son and I really enjoyed our first Forest School Fridays session and would love to come again. Although it had a structure, it was flexible and didn't pressure the children to take part in a set way. In other groups we've tried, sessions are often very structured, with children expected to sit and follow along, something D doesn't enjoy. He needs time to adapt, and by the time he's ready, those sessions are usually ending. This was completely different, he was free to explore at his own pace, and he especially loved the mud kitchen, where I could see him collaborate with other children. Hattie was warm and caring with the children, and even though D is often shy at first, he seemed very comfortable with her right away.”

  • Parent

    “We enjoyed a lovely adventure at Wild Dawn Forest School! The session was engaging with really imaginative activities and lots of opportunities for the children to learn and develop skills.”

BOOK HERE