The Outdoor Woodland Learning School CIC (non profit) aims to enable everyone to have

an enjoyable and inspiring experience outdoors in the woods.

Outdoor Woodland Learning School (OWLS CIC) was formed in response to the need in schools and communities to enable children and young people to engage in a positive, challenging and exciting way with our natural environment in North East Scotland. This learning comes through participation in outdoor learning and in enabling young people to be involved in planning and evolving their own learning.

To achieve this we have a team of enthusiastic people all of whom love the outdoor environment as well as enjoying the challenge of working with young people and adults.

The OWLS Team

Heidi Neal – Director

Heidi is from Aberdeenshire and after a decade travelling the world chasing mountains and snow, she settled down to deliver Nature connection experiences in the Shire 19 years ago. Providing therapeutic outdoor experiences within the education sector became a focus a few years later.

A Trauma-Sensitive Body-Oriented Coach, Nature Connection Practitioner, Forest School Leader, iRest Yoga Nidra facilitator, and Therapeutic Mentor, Heidi is passionate about the power both Nature and community has to support healing, health and wellbeing.

Heidi loves to seek out a cacophony of Nature noise, and connect with the rhythms of the wild and says ‘I still pinch myself that I get to do this at work too. Being in places where we can slow down, find connection, and experience the restorative power of nature and community – there’s nothing else I’d rather be doing, nowhere else I’d rather be – except maybe curled up by the fire after a long day outdoors.’

Bela Spencer

I came to Forest School through home educating my youngest daughter. We went along to Little OWLS when she was two years old, and it captivated both of us. Our Forest School journey continued as we spent many hours in the woods, coming together with other home-educating families. I have always loved the outdoors, but being in community in nature holds a certain magic that truly nourishes me.

My background is in holistic therapies, bodywork, and meditation, spanning three decades of experience. This journey took me around the world, where I worked and lived in ashrams, retreats, and communities, studying under many esoteric teachers. I have worked with women and their families as a midwife, doula, Yogabirth practitioner, and baby massage and yoga teacher, facilitating a broad spectrum of care for both mothers and babies.

I love working with people and am deeply passionate about witnessing their growth. I believe in the powerful role nature plays in our recovery and connection processes, providing a nurturing space for transformation and healing. I feel grateful to be able to support these journeys.

Here at OWLS, I facilitate Little OWLS, OWLS parties, holiday clubs, our OWLS Home Education Club, and OWLS Women’s Woodcraft & Nature Connection sessions.

OWLS Team

How to Book

To confirm date availability just

click on the Book Now link.