Welcome To Wild Sticks
Wild Sticks is an education provided based in Kent that comes to your setting. We are a place where children learn, grow, and thrive through the power of nature.
We provide a safe, nurturing outdoor environment where every child is encouraged to explore, take supported risks, and develop confidence, independence, and resilience. Inspired by Forest School principles, our sessions are designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong connection to the natural world.
At Wild Sticks, we believe every child is unique. Through hands-on experiences and inclusive practice, we create opportunities for all learners to succeed, build friendships, and feel a true sense of belonging.
Our Approach
We provide a welcoming outdoor environment where children and young people can learn, explore, and grow through meaningful experiences in nature.
Inspired by Forest School principles, our approach supports each child to develop confidence, independence, and self-esteem at their own pace. Through hands-on learning, we nurture curiosity, creativity, and a strong connection to the natural world, while also supporting physical and mental wellbeing.
We are committed to inclusion and ensure that every child feels valued, respected, and supported. By encouraging children to take appropriate risks and try new experiences, we help them build resilience and develop important life skills within a supportive community.
What to except
At Wild Sticks, we offer a carefully planned and balanced outdoor curriculum designed to support the development of the whole child.
Our sessions provide a wide range of opportunities to bring the best out of each child. We encourage children to explore their ideas, challenge themselves and work collaboratively with others to solve problems.
Activities may include:
- Shelter building
- Fire lighting and outdoor cooking
- Safe tool use, including carving and whittling
- Nature-based art and sculpture
- Learning about and caring for wildlife
- Building bird boxes and bug homes
- Rope work and knot tying
- Group games and team challenges
- Drama, storytelling, and imaginative play
- Traditional woodland crafts
- Free play and exploration
Each session is designed to be engaging and adaptable to ensure a tailored approach to individual settings where required.
About Wild Sticks
About Us
Wild Sticks was founded by Richard Whiting, who began his career in education over 15 years ago. He started in early years settings as a nursery practitioner, progressed to a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), and later worked within primary education.
During his time in primary schools, Richard was introduced to the Forest School approach and witnessed first-hand the positive impact it had on pupils. He holds a BA (Hons) in Childhood Studies, a Level 3 Forest School Leader qualification, and a Paediatric First Aid certificate.
Having observed the rigidity often associated with classroom-based teaching, Richard chose not to pursue a traditional teaching pathway. Instead, he set out to combine his passion for the outdoors with education, providing children with an alternative approach to learning that better supports their individual needs.
Richard is deeply committed to ensuring that every child has equal access to meaningful learning opportunities, regardless of their individual differences or additional learning needs. This ethos sits at the heart of Wild Sticks, shaping an inclusive environment where all children are supported to thrive.
What we can provide
Our Sessions
We provide flexible, child-centred sessions designed to fit smoothly into the school day while supporting the individual needs of every child and setting. Our approach is inclusive, engaging, and adaptable, ensuring each session is both enjoyable and beneficial.
We understand that no two schools or children are the same, which is why we offer a range of session options and are always happy to tailor what we do wherever possible.
Session Times
Our typical daily structure includes three session options:
• Morning Session: 9:00 – 10:45
• Lunchtime Session: 12:00 – 12:40
• Afternoon Session: 1:00 – 2:45
This structure allows sessions to fit comfortably around the school timetable, minimising disruption while maximising the time children can engage, learn, and benefit.
Group Sizes
We carefully plan our group sizes to ensure children receive the right level of support, attention, and engagement:
• Morning & Afternoon Sessions: Up to 15 children
• Lunchtime Sessions: Up to 6 children
Our smaller lunchtime groups offer a calm, more focused environment, which can be particularly beneficial for children who thrive in quieter settings or need additional support. Morning and afternoon sessions are structured to be interactive, inclusive, and supportive, encouraging participation and confidence in a group setting.
Please note a member of staff from your setting must attend each Morning & Afternoon Sessions.
A Flexible Approach
Flexibility is at the heart of what we offer. We work closely with schools and families to ensure sessions are delivered in a way that best suits the children attending. Whether it’s adjusting group sizes, timings, or the structure of sessions, we aim to provide a service that is responsive and accommodating.
Pricing
As our sessions are flexible and tailored to individual requirements, pricing may vary depending on factors such as session length, group size, and the level of support needed. We believe this approach allows us to offer the best possible experience for each setting and ensure children receive the right support.
We are always happy to discuss your needs and provide clear, personalised pricing with no hidden costs.
Get in Touch
If you would like to find out more or discuss how we can support your school or your child, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re always happy to talk through options and find the best fit for you.
Splash
Meet Splash
Splash is more than just a teddy — he’s a gentle companion, a listener, and a comforting friend, lovingly named by the children who adore him. Designed with your child’s wellbeing at heart, Splash supports emotional growth, confidence, and comfort in everyday moments and big life changes.
A Comforting Friend, Anytime
Splash acts as a reassuring presence when you can’t be there. Like many beloved soft toys, he becomes a “transitional object,” helping children feel safe during times of separation, whether it’s bedtime, naptime, or starting school. A simple cuddle can bring calm, helping little ones feel secure and settled.
Helping Children Understand Big Feelings
Children naturally use play to make sense of the world. With Splash, they can act out situations, express worries, and explore emotions in a safe and gentle way. This kind of imaginative play can help children process difficult or confusing experiences, giving them a sense of control and reducing anxiety.
Growing Kind Hearts
By caring for Splash — feeding him, comforting him, and taking him on adventures — children begin to develop empathy, compassion, and kindness. These small acts of nurturing build important social and emotional skills that last a lifetime.
Encouraging Communication & Creativity
Splash is a wonderful conversation partner. Children often chat, tell stories, and share their thoughts with Splash, building confidence in their language and communication skills in a relaxed, pressure-free way.
Supporting Independence
As children grow, Splash becomes a steady source of comfort they can rely on. He helps bridge the gap between dependence and independence, giving children the confidence to explore the world knowing they always have a trusted friend by their side.
Sensory Comfort & Calm
Soft, cuddly, and soothing to hold, Splash provides sensory comfort that can help children relax and unwind. His gentle texture offers reassurance, while calming features (such as softness and familiarity) can help reduce stress and promote a sense of wellbeing.
Why We Love Splash
Splash isn’t just a toy — he’s a supportive companion who helps children feel safe, understood, and confident as they grow. Splash is always there with a comforting hug whatever the weather in the Forest.