After completing her Forest School Practitioner course at FortWhyte in 2016, Leah has brought her passion for nature-based learning everywhere she goes.

With nearly 20 years of experience and an honours diploma in Early Childhood Education, Leah has found inspiration in many settings of early learning. From large centres, to Montessori schools, to private multi-family care, to her own entrepreneurial Forest School sessions along the riverbanks of Winnipeg, her commitment to outdoor child-led curriculum runs deep. Leading workshops on risky play and the forest school ethos for independent childcare centres and professional development conferences has also been a big part of her career in recent years.

Leah is a mother of two young teens who love exploring new and familiar places in nature, in their neighbourhood, along with a few annual road trips.

Nadine Lidgett comes to us from Anola MB, where she lives with her husband and 3 teenage boys. She has an Honours Diploma in Early Childhood Education, a Certificate in Inclusion, and is a certified Forest School Practitioner. Nadine has operated her own licensed family child care, has worked in all ages of child care facilities, and most recently worked as an EA in an elementary school, infusing forest school values into all of them! With over 25 years of experience, she is excited to move into a true forest school setting and continue her learning journey.

Breanne has been working in the Forest School program since 2021. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology, an interdisciplinary Master of Environment degree, and is a certified Forest School practitioner. Prior to joining Forest School, she worked at the Centre for Earth Observation Science at the University of Manitoba, and as a natural sciences interpreter with FortWhyte’s Education Team.

Because of their boundless energy, curiosity, and senses of wonder and adventure, children are innate scientists. Breanne appreciates every opportunity to be as excited as they are with each new discovery, and relishes all the questions and possibilities that arise. It is inspiring to learn alongside them as they build connections with and compassion for each other and the natural world.

Jo is a Part-Time Forest School Facilitator at FortWhyte here on Treaty One land. She began her Forest School experience as a regular volunteer in Fall of 2022 and stepped into the role of Casual On-Call Forest School Facilitator in January of 2024. Starting this season, she will be taking on a regular role with the Catkins and is grateful for the opportunity to be a consistent presence at Forest School. She is here to support learners in nurturing a reciprocal relationship with the land and fulfilling our responsibilities towards our home, our communities, and ourselves.