Vanessa Pearson
Outdoor support worker
I work as part of a team with Natural Networks, a comunity interest company. Its aim is to build on people’s connection to nature and others, through inclusive outdoor learning in Bristol and surrounding areas, focusing on well-being, inclusion, and environmental appreciation. We support communities with free or affordable programmes, including forest school, outdoor cooking, outdoor play, and environmental stewardship.
Our programmes give children and young people the chance to learn, play, make new friends and thrive outdoors. Led by skilled outdoor practitioners and supported by local volunteers, sessions are designed to build confidence, curiosity, and a genuine connection with nature and community. From forest school skills, outdoor exploration and hands-on environmental projects, learning happens naturally – through experience.
Whether children are climbing trees, building shelters, cooking over an open fire, or simply enjoying the calm of the natural environment, every session supports well-being and resilience.
We offer Forest School, bushcraft, outdoor play, environmental social action, community events, and adventure trips and residentials. Each programme and experience is carefully planned and child-led, encouraging teamwork, problem-solving, independence, and care for the natural world. Children and young people leave with new skills and a stronger sense of themselves and their place in their community.
Our work supports:
• Bringing people together from all walks of life and supporting connection and belonging
• SEND-inclusive experiences
• People seeking training and employment pathways
• Families affected by poverty
• Marginalised groups
• Children and young people who may be at risk
Key delivery locations include:
• Heart of BS13 Climate Action Hub
• Manor Woods Valley
• St Mary Redcliffe Churchyard
• Springfield Community Allotments
• Imayla Green Space in St Paul’s
We also work in city farms, local parks and green spaces across Bristol and the surrounding areas, bringing nature-based experiences directly into communities.
For more information and future dates, please see natural networks website:
https://natural-networks.co.uk/#