Hello! I'm Areta,
With over two decades of early childhood education experience and a Bachelor of Early Childhood Studies (Hons), I've dedicated my career to championing the power of play in children's lives.
My unique journey and extensive qualifications have shaped my innovative approach to early childhood education. I believe in fostering connections between communities and the great outdoors, where each nature play experience becomes an opportunity for learning and growth.
As a certified Forest School Leader, I ensure our programs follow principles of minimal waste, ecosystem protection, and regular, extended playtime. I'm committed to activating green spaces across sectors, believing that everyone should have equal access to nature play opportunities in their local communities.
My Philosophy
My philosophy is rooted in a deep commitment to nature-based education and a vision for creating meaningful, lifelong learning experiences for children in our community. It emphasises building strong foundations through play-based and child-led learning, while honouring cultural diversity and fostering community connections. This approach integrates nature-based education with inclusive practices to nurture imagination, resilience, and respect for the world around us.
For a more detailed exploration of my philosophy, please explore the full statement here.
Certifications
Bachelor Early Childhood Studies (Hons) - University of Melbourne
Certificate IV Training & Assessment
Certificate III Visual Art
Level 3 Forest School Leader (UK)
Level 2 First Aid CPR
Blue Card
Activating Green Spaces for Play
Bush Kindy Teaching activates green spaces for play through inclusive bush kindy and bush kinder programs, increasing access to place-based, child-led learning in outdoor community spaces. Our programs transform local environments into rich learning landscapes where children can explore, imagine, and thrive.
No Cost and Inclusive
We welcome children of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to grow with us in inclusive, supportive settings. Through partnerships with government programs, corporate initiatives, and local community projects, we ensure our outdoor learning experiences are accessible to a diverse cross section of our community.
Place-Based in Community
Bush Kindy Teaching programs are are delivered in partnership with Family Day Care (FDC), Outside School Hours Care (OSHC), Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) services, Home Schoolers, Bush Playgroups, and Schools—helping children form lasting connections with nature play.
Every program is carefully designed to reflect the uniqueness of its location, nurturing imagination and confidence through meaningful outdoor experiences
Inspired by our approach?
Whether you're a parent, educator, or community organisation, we’d love to support you. Explore our bush kindy and bush kinder programs or contact us to bring nature play to your setting via professional development or incursions.
