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About us
We are based in Ōtautahi - Christchurch. We work mainly with preschools, home-educators, schools and others who are based in Canterbury but have occasionally traveled or consulted further afield.
Our why
I was born and raised on Vancouver Island, in western Canada. Most of my childhood memories involve playing outside. These early memories and a background in education inspired me to create spaces for play. In 2013, I connected with local designer, John Allen, an expert in creating beautiful nature-based playspace and I spent several years working and learning from him before starting Woodland Escape. I am grateful for the ongoing connection to John and his generous sharing of knowledge, experience and resources.
I am passionate about the importance of outdoor play for children. These early experiences in the outdoors help form a connection to place and provide children the opportunity to notice, explore and wonder about the natural world around them. They can learn to take risks, challenge themselves and learn more about who they are and what they are interested in. Playing outdoors affords opportunities for them to communicate, problem solve and collaborate with others as well as the space for moving in ways that help them develop their muscles, coordination and balance.
My life with trees
Who we are
I have over ten years experience designing, maintaining and helping to create natural playscapes for early childhood centres, schools, community organisations and homes. I hold a Bachelor degree in education, a Masters in Urban Resilience and Renewal and have completed training in organic horticulture and landscape design. I have certification for level 2 RPII/RoSPA Operational Inspection training for the playground standards NZS5828:2015, which has given me an in-depth understanding of the standards. I work closely with someone who issues compliance certificates.
I often work closely with Belinda Nicholls, who has a talent for design and thinking about spaces differently. We first met through Playcentre 20 years ago and share a love of play and plants. We pride ourselves on genuine consultation, listening to clients, observing how children are using the space and gathering information about what is working and what needs to be added or changed.
I collaborate with two other local businesses to create nature-rich spaces. Our preferred contractor for the build and project management is Jared at Natureflow. We work with him for most of our projects and value his knowledge and experience of the playground standards and his workmanship and design advice. Most of our projects also involve the team at Wood Ltd. who manage the earthworks, concreting and supporting us with projects which require more technical advice.