About Us

Sylvan Lore

The wisdom of the woods

Sylvan Lore was established in 2021. Its mission is to reconnect young people and adults with nature and the outdoors, through the development of traditional woodland skills and adventurous activities. We believe that spending purposeful time in nature and being comfortable and confident in the outdoors, brings a myriad of benefits to both physical and mental health.

We support schools across North Yorkshire and the North East of England, both through regular weekly curriculum projects, adventurous activities days and teacher training. At Sylvan Lore, we are passionate about integrating outdoor learning and traditional skills with school curriculums. This allows us to work on extended projects with educational establishments, supporting change to teaching and learning approaches as well as the development of school sites.

Our work within in the charity and ‘not for profit’ sector is very important to us. Project planning and delivery on behalf of partner organisations is one of our strengths. We currently work within areas of deprivation and support vulnerable groups in accessing purposeful outdoor activities.

Meet The Team

David Sims

Founder

David has always felt happiest in the outdoors. During his 26 years working in education he has been a class teacher, creative curriculum consultant, headteacher and university lecturer. His passion for educating the ‘whole child’ has been an important factor throughout his career.

He now enjoys passing on his passion for traditional woodland skills and knowledge with adults and children.

National Professional Qualification for Headship
BA(hons) Education QTS
Archery GB Instructor Award
NFCE L3 Wilderness Skills Range Instructor
iTC L3 Forest School Leader

Jayne French

Senior Leader

Jayne brings 16 years of Primary School teaching experience to Sylvan Lore. With a background in special educational needs and early years leadership, she is passionate about supporting children and adults access nature inclusively. Jayne started her outdoor journey as a scout leader and has spent the last four years honing her skills with us working part time. Now, as a full time senior leader, Jayne offers a wealth of experience in both the outdoors and from an educational perspective.

NPQ Early Years Leadership
NPQ Leading Teaching
PG Cert for SENCO

Kate Archard

Leader (Part Time)

Kate is never happier than when she is hiking up a mountain. Her love for the outdoors began during her time of extensive travel, and she brings this love for adventure to Sylvan Lore. Kate has 14 years of teaching experience, as a class teacher, and leading a wide range of exciting science projects in a number of schools.

BA(Hons) Primary Education with QTS Durham
PADI Advanced Open Water Diver
Advanced Skills in Winter Walking

Sylvan Lore

Meet The Team

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