Esther Wilson – Founder & CEO

My name is Esther and I am the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Real World Forest School CIC. I am also the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

Real World Forest School is more than a business to me, it was born from a deeply personal chapter in my life. During a challenging time in my family’s journey, I witnessed the profound comfort, freedom and healing that time outdoors can bring. In nature, I saw moments of pure childhood joy return when they were needed most. Those experiences shaped my belief in the restorative power of the natural world and became the foundation of everything I do.

As both an educator and a mother, I understand how vital it is for children to feel safe, seen and independent. I am a qualified Early Years Educator and Forest School Leader with over 20 years of experience in education , including five years leading Forest School in a West London primary school, where I developed the provision and they achieved Forest School Association accreditation. I am also a qualified Rainbow Yoga teacher for children and families.

Alongside my professional work, I am home educator. I am deeply committed to creating inclusive, child-led spaces where every child and adult is valued and empowered to grow in their own way.

I personally lead every session to ensure a safe, carefully considered, and truly special experience . My provision is nurturing, purposeful, and rooted in respect — fostering emotional intelligence, resilience, independence, and curiosity through meaningful experiences outdoors.

Based in West London, I am a dedicated mother of two. In my spare time I enjoy reading, practicing yoga and spending time in nature. It is a privilege to share the gifts of Forest School and outdoor learning with the community I serve.

Charlotte Lee – Director and COO

My name is Charlotte and I am a Director and the Chief Operations Officer of Real World Forest School CIC. I also work as a Senior Business Manager at NHS England, where I bring extensive experience in project management, governance and strategic planning. 

I’m passionate about creating clear, supportive processes, and I draw on my NHS England expertise to strengthen how Real World Forest School is run, helping us grow sustainably and deliver a high‑quality experience for our community.

I am deeply committed to the belief that access to nature should be part of everyday life. Time spent outdoors supports emotional wellbeing, physical health and a stronger sense of balance in our busy world. I am especially proud that Real World Forest School provides opportunities for both children and adults to reconnect with nature in a meaningful and supportive way.

I will also be supporting our Forest School sessions and look forward to welcoming you soon.

I am a proud mother of two, and in my spare time I enjoy dancing, reading and being in nature

Our Volunteers

Veera – Volunteer

Hi, my name is Veera and I am a volunteer at Real World Forest School CIC. Originally from Finland, I grew up with a strong connection to nature, which continues to shape my values today. I have lived in London for seven years, having previously lived in Japan.

My professional background is in travel, where I work as a travel agent supporting people in exploring new places and cultures. I am proud to now support Real World Forest School in creating opportunities for children to explore and build confidence in the natural environment.

In my spare time, I enjoy arts and crafts, spending time in London’s parks and knitting.

Carolina – Volunteer

Hi, my name is Carolina and I am a volunteer at Real World Forest School CIC. I am passionate about creating more opportunities for children and adults to spend meaningful time in nature, and I am proud to support Real World Forest School in facilitating those experiences.

I live in Chelsea with my husband and our three children. As a dedicated mother, I understand how important it is for families to have access to safe, nurturing outdoor environments where children can grow in confidence and independence.

My professional background is in childcare, and I hold a degree in Linguistics, which has given me a strong understanding of communication and child development.

Fairy Ada

Greetings! My name is Ada, and I am a real-life Forest School fairy. I love inspiring children to care for and connect with the natural world, helping them learn how to look after nature in fun and meaningful ways.

When I’m not flying around Forest School, I’m studying Psychology and Drama at Bath University. In my spare time, I enjoy dancing, singing, reading, drawing, writing, watching films, and travelling.

I have always loved fairies after being inspired by Tinkerbell and reading the Rainbow Magic series as a child.

My future plans are to meet more fairies at fairy festivals and eventually run my very own Fairy School.

You might spot me at a Forest School event or lending a helping hand at a holiday club—always ready to share a little twinkle and stardust wherever I go.✨

Leah – Volunteer

Hello! My name is Leah and I am a volunteer with Real World Forest School CIC.  Growing up by the sea in the west of Ireland, I spent much of my childhood outdoors. This connection has stayed with me ever since, and time spent in nature is still deeply restorative and grounding for me.

Professionally, my background is in Psychology. I hold an MSc in Psychological Science and have worked supporting people with autism, learning difficulties, and mental health challenges. I’ve seen through my work too how the natural world offers peace and connection that’s sometimes hard to find elsewhere. 

I’m excited to bring together my love of the outdoors and my experience supporting others to help create a space where children of all backgrounds can experience the same sense of wonder and wellbeing that nature has always given me.