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Bush Kindy | About | Professional Development
Bush Kindy

Our Approach to Professional Development

Our hands-on, nature-based training builds confidence and practical skills in educators and leaders, supporting inclusive, reflective, and play-based learning across diverse education and community settings.

Meet Areta

New to nature play or want to grow your outdoor learning skills? You’re in the right place.


With over 20 years in early childhood education, I know getting started outdoors can feel overwhelming. I’ve learned through many roles — OSHC educator, playgroup leader, mum of two, LDC lead educator, 2IC, educational leader, kindergarten director, forest school leader, community connector, mentor, and consultant.


Backed by a Bachelor of Early Childhood Studies (Honours), Cert IV in Training & Assessment, and UK-accredited Forest School Leader certification, I’ve learned that everyone starts somewhere — and real learning happens when we feel safe and supported.


Whether you're just starting or ready to deepen your practice, we’ll build confidence together. My approach is simple: create a warm space where you can ask questions, try new things, and leave with practical skills you can use straight away.

My Philosophy

At Bush Kindy Learning, I believe learning is a lifelong journey that should be meaningful, inclusive, and grounded in both evidence-based practice and respect for diverse perspectives. My professional development approach is shaped by a deep commitment to First Nations knowledge, hands-on learning, and global best practices, ensuring educators are empowered to create enriching, high-quality learning experiences. My training is suitable for Community Groups, Not-For-Profits, NGO's, Government Organisations, Educators in OSHC, Long Day Care, Kindergartens, Family Day Care, Nature Playgroup Leaders, Home Schoolers, Teachers and Teacher Aids.

First Nations Perspectives and Respect

I recognise and honour the knowledge systems, pedagogies, and ways of knowing of First Nations peoples. My professional learning integrates Indigenous perspectives through relationships with local Elders and community members, ensuring that cultural wisdom is not only acknowledged but embedded in meaningful ways. I advocate for respectful learning that listens to Country and values the wisdom of the world's oldest continuous cultures.

Tailored Learning Where Possible

Each educator's journey is unique, and professional development should reflect this. I offer a range of topics and flexible learning pathways that consider individual needs, contexts, and prior experience. Whether through a live webinar for individuals or groups who wish to expand their knowledge, or face-to-face service-based sessions, Bush Kindy Learning strives to provide meaningful, relevant learning experiences that educators can immediately apply in practice.

Cultural Safety and Inclusion

A respectful and inclusive learning environment is fundamental. I create spaces where all learners feel valued, heard, and safe to explore new ideas. My approach actively promotes anti-bias education and encourages critical reflection in early childhood, school-based and home learning education.

Diverse Learning Styles

I recognise that people learn in different ways. My professional development suite incorporates a range of learning modalities, including visual, auditory, kinaesthetic, and social learning opportunities. Inspired by Reggio Emilia's "100 Languages of Children", I embrace multiple ways of thinking, expressing, and engaging with knowledge, even as adults.

Hands-On Where Possible

Learning is most effective when it is lived and experienced. Wherever possible, my professional development includes immersive, hands-on opportunities, whether that’s exploring nature pedagogy in the bush, engaging in practical activities, or applying new skills in real-time teaching scenarios.

Global Audience

Education is a shared global responsibility. My approach draws from leading international education frameworks and philosophies, including Reggio Emilia, Rudolf Steiner, Montessori, Te Whāriki, and Indigenous perspectives. I ensure my professional development sessions are relevant and adaptable for educators across diverse cultural and geographical contexts.

Adaptable and Practical Learning Outcomes

Theory is valuable, but professional development must translate into real-world impact. My learning experiences focus on practical, adaptable strategies that educators can immediately implement in their settings.

Alignment with National Frameworks and Global Research

My professional development is aligned with key national frameworks, while also drawing from global research and best practices in early childhood education worldwide. I maintain a commitment to ongoing learning and continuous improvement, ensuring the content remains relevant, evidence-based, and forward-thinking.

High Quality Learning

Quality is at the core of everything I do as a trainer and assessor. I carry a strong foundation in pedagogy and practical experience. 


This includes:

Bachelor-trained Early Childhood Teacher (Honours), University of Melbourne (2003)


Cert IV Training and Assessment, Kangan Institute (2012)


Forest School Leadership Level 3, UK (2024)


Every program is carefully designed to be rigorous, engaging, and deeply connected to best practice in education.


Ready to take the next step?

Whether you're beginning your journey or building on existing experience, Bush Kindy Learning offers professional development that meets you where you are.


Explore available training options or contact us to discuss a tailored session for your team or community.