Anna Gray

I have taught in Primary and First schools in Northumberland and Newcastle for nearly 18 years and have been very lucky to have the opportunity to teach in classes from Reception to Year 6. I loved my time in schools, working with many different children and watching them as they developed in character, skills and maturity. It is a privilege to be a part of that process!

Whilst working in Newcastle I became very interested in children's unique learning styles and how this can impact on their progress. This interest grew when I moved to a school in Northumberland and became involved in outdoor learning and Forest Schools. As a mother and teacher it never ceases to amaze me how children respond to working outside. Children who find the constraints of a classroom difficult, thrive; children who are normally quiet and reserved find confidence; and children who struggle to mix, work well in a team. I became a  Level 3 Forest School leader and Level 3 Beach School leader in 2011 and continued to ensure that children in my care experienced outdoor learning at least once a week. These outdoor days were hugely popular with the pupils and parents alike. They enabled the children to enhance their learning, be taught curriculum skills and gain huge enthusiasm to further their learning back in the classroom. 

In December 2014 I made the huge jump and left classroom teaching to set up my own Business - Grow & Learn Outdoors (GLO). Although I really miss being a part of a school and a class it has been fantastic to meet lots of new people and introduce them to the joys of outdoor learning. Their smiles at the end of each session say it all!!

I have a current Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) Certificate, up to date Outdoor Paediatric First Aid Training and public liability insurance.