Hi, I'm Lydia!

I am the eldest of five and I grew up surrounded by a big extended family, whose favourite things to do included going on camping holidays, trekking up big windy hills in Dorset and trying to catch a glimpse of as many shooting stars as possible. When I wasn't doing that I could usually be found with my head in a book or three.

I have always known that my heart lies in working with children and, after completing my degree in English Literature, I trained as a primary school teacher in 2010. Since qualifying I have gone on to do supply teaching, work as a Nanny, for several years, and change more nappies than I could even begin to count but by far my greatest adventure in life has been having my own three children and getting to experience the world anew through their eyes.

Seeing my eldest son's curiosity, about the world and everything in it, my daughter's love of walking barefoot in the mud, and my 5 month old looking on in wonder at absolutely everything he sees reminds me how children learn about the world and themselves best when they are allowed to slow down and fully immerse themselves in everything nature has to offer. I can't wait to share my enthusiasm for learning about nature and love of books and rainbows with your mini explorers.

 

Hi, I'm Jade.

I've always loved art. I've been drawing, painting and making things since I can remember. I continued with my love for art into college where I studied Art and Design at BTEC diploma level. After college I actually went on to City and Islington college for Applied Sciences and became a Dispensing Optician. I continued as an Optician and manager for many years, working in Hampshire, Devon and Somerset. I left Optics behind when I had my first beautiful son (now 6 years old) and went back to my love for art, selling paintings, cards and designing baby clothing.

My sons share my love for the outdoors and we spend hours in the woods with our dog Rusty, climbing trees, learning about the trees and plants and breathing in the fresh air. My son says that the woods make him feel refreshed, I have to agree!

Mini explorers club really combines my passion for Art, being outdoors and learning about the natural world and my love for teaching children all about it. My Dad used to quiz me about the flowers and trees on walks when I was young, Now I talk to my boys about it, and really looking forward to teaching your little ones all about the trees and wildlife in our club woods, along with learning about the colour, patterns and making some art and crafts together.

I look forward to meeting you.