Our Story

Discovering Nature, Empowering Futures...

The Outdoor Learning Academy is a leading outdoor education organisation, specialising in alternative provision for children with special educational needs. Our journey began in 2010 under the name Sunrise Bushcraft, where we focused on delivering bespoke outdoor events and worked closely with the Woodland Trust. As we grew, we recognised the increasing demand for alternative provision to support children in need of tailored educational experiences in nature.

Over the years, we partnered with local councils and schools to develop this service, and it quickly became the heart of our work. In 2024, we rebranded to the Outdoor Learning Academy to better reflect our commitment to providing impactful outdoor education that fosters personal growth, confidence, and learning in a natural environment. Today, we are proud to continue that mission, creating unique learning experiences for children who thrive outside traditional classroom settings.

At the core of the Outdoor Learning Academy are our values — a compass that guides us in every endeavour. We believe in the transformative power of nature, fostering resilience, and cultivating a love for learning. Our mission is to empower individuals to thrive by providing experiential education that extends far beyond the confines of traditional classrooms. Through outdoor activities like bushcraft, we've seen individuals discover their strengths, build resilience, and develop a profound connection with the natural world. It's these stories that fuel our commitment to alternative education.

Meet The Team

The Outdoor Learning Academy is more than just a name; it's a collective effort driven by a team of passionate individuals. From seasoned outdoor educators to experts in bushcraft and Forest School, each team member brings a unique set of skills and a shared dedication to providing unparalleled educational experiences.

All staff have an enhanced DBS check, Level 3 Safeguarding qualification and Outdoor First Aid certification.

Director

James White

James White is the Director of the Outdoor Learning Academy, where he brings his lifelong passion for the outdoors to life. A keen cook and foraging enthusiast, James was a finalist on Masterchef, showcasing his culinary creativity. With qualifications as a Level 3 Bushcraft Instructor and Mountain Leader, he expertly guides others in connecting with nature. Deeply committed to social impact, James actively contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals by improving opportunities for underprivileged children, ensuring they benefit from the transformative power of outdoor education.

Education Director

Amanda White

A versatile educator with a rich skill set and a passion for safety and personal development. Holding a CERT ED in Education, she brings expertise in assessment processes and practice, backed by an ICT Level 4 Award in internal quality assurance. Committed to safety, Amanda possesses certifications in Safer Recruiting, Laser Standardisation, and Disaster Preparedness, ensuring secure learning environments. Her compassion for inclusive education is evident through a certification in learning disabilities, while expertise in public health is showcased by a Certificate in Epidemics. Train the Trainer certified.

Instructor

Jon Bon Sharps

Jon brings over 15 years of experience in outdoor learning, specialising in supporting children with special educational needs. With a BSc in Outdoor Education and Environmental Education, Jon combines expertise in bushcraft, forest school practices, and sustainability to deliver engaging, nature-based programs. A skilled musician, Jon often integrates music into his sessions, fostering creativity and connection. He has led impactful projects like building a treehouse with young participants and running specialised home education groups. Dedicated to inclusivity and environmental stewardship, Jon creates safe, transformative experiences that inspire growth and resilience.

Instructor

Ben Lapham

Ben has spent the past 8 years specialising in working with children and young adults with unique abilities and diverse needs. Combining this with his passion for the outdoors and bushcraft knowledge, he strives to create a truly special environment where any child can grow and thrive.

Qualifications include:

Level 3 Forest School
SCIP-R Trained
Full Care Certificate Induction

Instructor

Inga Street

Inga brings a wealth of experience and a holistic approach to outdoor education. With over 40 years of meditation practice and a decade of training under a Zen Buddhist monk, she combines mindfulness with the therapeutic power of creativity.

A Fine Art graduate from Central St Martins London, Inga is also a qualified meditation and mindfulness teacher, yoga instructor, REIKI Master Practitioner, and Breathwork Therapist. Her sessions nurture emotional growth and resilience through creative play, offering children a safe and supportive environment to thrive.

Instructor

Sally Mitchell

With over 25 years of experience in environmental and conservation education, Sally specialises in outdoor learning within school grounds, family-friendly nature experiences, and guided walks. Having spent a decade as a New Forest Ranger, Sally remains dedicated to helping people connect with nature and enjoy the many benefits of nature-based play and learning.

Qualifications include:

BSc (Hons) in Rural Resource Management
Postgraduate Certificate in Environmental Education
Forest School Leader (Level 3)

"Incorporating the bushcraft education programs into our school curriculum has been a game-changer. The students not only developed practical outdoor skills but also enhanced their teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience. The instructors were knowledgeable, patient, and skilled at connecting with students of all ages. I wholeheartedly recommend this organisation to fellow educators."