Ep 242 - Expectations VS Reality in 2026

This episode explores the realities of forest school leadership, challenging idealized expectations with authentic experiences. Hosts Wem and Lewis share insights on community building, industry myths, and the importance of authenticity in outdoor education.

keywords

forest school, outdoor education, community building, training realities, outdoor leadership, nature-based learning

key topics

Myths vs. reality of forest school training

Community building and relationship management

Flexibility and adaptability in outdoor education

Chapters

00:00 The Long-Tailed Tit's Nest Discovery

05:28 Springtime Adventures and Nature's Bounty

06:34 The Reality of Forest School Training

11:45 Expectations vs. Reality in Outdoor Education

19:48 The Challenges of Flexibility in Outdoor Settings

25:57 Nature Bypassing and the Business of Outdoor Education

31:58 Navigating the Business Side of Forest School

34:24 Navigating Code Switching in Education

37:25 The Journey of Continuous Learning

40:35 Community Holding Beyond the Classroom

45:23 Creating a Homely Outdoor Environment

50:24 The Punk Spirit of Forest School

57:18 The Future of Community-Funded Education

59:22 Pod Fart.mp4

resources

Forest School Association - https://forestschoolassociation.org/

Nests by Susan Ogilvie - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nests-Susan-Ogilvie/dp/XXXXXX

Ofsted - https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ofsted