About Us
nettle and nurture was created from a deep belief that children and families thrive when they are given time, space, and trust to connect with each other and the natural world. We believe that the family thrives together: to support our children we must support our parents.
We believe that everyone belongs in nature: learning to slow down, exploring freely to build a familiar, respectful relationship with plants, wildlife and our changing seasons.
In a world that can feel increasingly rushed and disconnected, nettle and nurture offers a gentle return to nature, curiosity and play.
At the heart of everything we do is the belief that children are capable, curious learners. Through free play, child-led exploration, and hands-on experiences, children are trusted to take control of their own learning, building confidence, resilience, and independence along the way.
🌱 Our Approach
Sessions are rooted in Forest School principles and guided by a strong understanding of child development, emotional wellbeing, and outdoor learning. Children are encouraged to explore at their own pace, take supported risks, and follow their interests — whether that’s muddy play, den building, plant identification, or simply sitting quietly and noticing the world around them.
🌿 Our Founder
Hi, I’m Natalie. I’m a solo, home educating mama. The idea for nettle and nurture was born when my son was, six years ago. I became a mum overnight — and despite being the best thing that’s ever happened to me, I felt like I lost myself. I noticed my name was gone, I was suddenly just ‘mum’ to everyone I met.
I wanted to parent intuitively. I wanted to slow down, trust my child, and reconnect with a more natural, family-focused way of living — but it felt like society was against every decision I made. ‘Just put him in his own room’, ‘he should be sitting still’, ‘have you thought about school-readiness classes?’
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I wanted to create a space where parents and children have a chance to just be together. To listen to our instincts, to find our village, to grow wild, together.
🎓 Qualifications and Training
I bring both professional training and heartfelt passion to my work, including:
- First Class Degree in Childhood Studies and Psychology
- Level 3 Forest School Leader
- Ofsted-registered Childminder
- Level 3 Award in Education and Training
- Level 3 Autism Awareness
- Outdoor First Aid
- Paediatric First Aid
- Level 3 Counselling Skills
- Level 3 Coaching
Our sessions are safe, nurturing, and emotionally supportive, while still allowing children the freedom and autonomy that outdoor learning thrives on. All our staff members have a full, enhanced DBS certificate, with relevant and ongoing training.
Want to join us?
Click here for our booking page, or check out our FAQs.
Contact nat@nettleandnurture.co.uk for any further questions.