ED 'RED FOX' HARDING
FOREST SCHOOL MANAGER
I decided upon a career in Outdoor Education after training as a Primary School teacher (Primary PGCE from Bath Spa University). It was the perfect opportunity to link my love of teaching and a passion for the outdoors and so trained for my Level 3 Advanced Qualification in Forest School Leadership at Bridgwater College. Since qualifying I have worked in a wide range of places, including Pre-Schools, Primary Schools and outdoor centres, offering after school clubs and in-school sessions for children and adults.
At Free Rangers I am responsible for the planning, delivery, risk assessment, evaluation and development of both the Forest School programme and site at the Nursery as well as for the Forest School Holiday Clubs.
I joined Free Rangers at its very beginning to continue my love of outdoor education with the fantastic and equally enthusiastic staff and facilities there.
Favourite tree: Any!
Favourite forest animal: Fox (obviously)
Favourite season: Spring for its vibrancy after the gloom of winter
Our Story
Welton Manor Farm has been in our family for three generations. Our Grandad, George Knowles used to farm the land...
The Site
Surrounded by rolling countryside Free Rangers is located on a former working farm site and has exclusive access to 20 acres.
Forest School
Forest School is a key approach to learning which underpins the Free Rangers ethos and lies at the heart of what we do.