Nature Educators – Teaching in Te Taiao

Practical Aotearoa-based training for Forest School,

Bush Kindy, outdoor classrooms and nature-based learning.

Are you a passionate kaiako wanting to get tamariki outdoors more? Maybe you want to start a Forest School, Bush Kindy, nature-based EOTC programme or outdoor classroom, but aren’t quite sure how to make it happen.

This practical two-day workshop will give you the knowledge, skills and confidence to develop outdoor learning in your own setting. Learn what you need to have in place, how to plan and manage your programme, and practical ways to confidently teach in te taiao.

Already running an outdoor or nature-based programme? You will still gain plenty of new ideas, practical skills and reassurance to strengthen your practice.

Specifically designed for an Aotearoa context, the weekend combines practical experiences, theory and opportunities to connect with other like-minded educators.

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What You Will Gain

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Understanding of Forest School and nature-based education in an Aotearoa context, including links to curriculum and EOTC.

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Learn how to develop an outdoor classroom, regular nature excursions or a Forest School/Bush Kindy-style programme in your setting.

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How to weave in Te Ao Māori and deepen your connection to te taiao.

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Day to day planning and ideas to support a nature play pedagogy.

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Risk assessment, group management skills and health and safety.

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Bush Craft Skills: Fire, Knives, Knots, Shelters and crafting with te taiao.

Further Information

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Saturday 9-5pm & Sunday 8.30-3pm

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A mix of both theory and practical – inside and outside no matter what the weather! Having appropriate clothing is essential

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Pre-reading sent out in advance of workshop (allow 1-2 hours)

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It is an intense 2 days. We recommend a quiet night on Saturday to allow time to process the information

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This is not a residential weekend. Attendees are required to find their own accommodation

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A certificate of completion will be available when finished

Investment, Dates and Locations

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$490 plus GST per person (Earlybird – 30 days before course date)

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$530 plus GST per person (Standard Registration)

ŌTAUTAHI / CHRISTCHURCH

Date: 12 & 13 September, 2026

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Who Are Your Trainers

CELIA HOGAN is the founder of Little Kiwis Nature Play based in Christchurch. Celia is a passionate advocate for getting children outdoors and into nature. With 25 years of outdoor and nature education experience, she runs Bush Kindy sessions for preschoolers in Christchurch and runs professional learning and development for ECE and Primary teachers, educators and parents. Celia loves to share her knowledge to help others better their practice and she stands behind the concept that there is never just one way to do things. Celia is currently trying to change legislation to allow full time bush kindergartens to start in New Zealand.