An Isle of Wight teacher has swapped the classroom for the outdoors as she launches Wild Isle, which looks to promote wellbeing for all ages through a connection with nature.
Mum of two, Elle Frankling, has spent the past 13 years working with children and young people, most recently as a primary school teacher in Sandown.
But the love of the outdoors and building relationships with children and supporting their needs has encouraged her to take an entrepreneurial step forward resulting in the launching of Wild Isle.
Building a connection with nature
The new venture, which looks to provide a connection with nature from bump to adulthood, offers engaging sessions Island wide including for those home educated and those on a part-time timetable.
As a qualified primary teacher holding a degree in Early Childhood Studies, Elle has extensive experience and knowledge which she is now utilising as an outdoor educator.
Creating meaningful relationships
Elle puts relationships with children at the forefront of what she does which enables them to explore in a safe manner. This is especially crucial when working with children with additional needs.
Over the last few years Elle has formed meaningful relationships with children, that has enabled them to remain in the classroom.
‘Bumps & Babies’
Wild Isle is offering perinatal mental health sessions which are supported by funding from the Isle of Wight Council’s Early Help fund.
‘Bumps & Babies’ encourages new mums to get out the house and form relationships with other new parents, supporting their mental wellbeing through engaging with nature – formed from Elle’s studies in adult mental health and wellbeing.
Other partnerships
Wild Isle is working in partnership with other local organisations including Pigsty Farm CIC in Porchfield and Wild Roots IW CIC. Relationships are also being developed with the National Trust and Gift to Nature.
As well as bespoke packages for home educated children, supported by a team of qualified teachers and a specialist speech and language beach school practitioner, after school sessions and family workshops are also being offered year-round.
Frankling: Putting my years of experience and my love for nature together
Elle says,
“When on maternity leave with our youngest daughter I realised that I couldn’t return to the classroom full time, like many teachers. I realised that I needed to explore a new opportunity, putting my years of experience and my love for nature together.
“As an Islander, I couldn’t think of anywhere better to bring together a fusion of education and the outdoors, from the farm to the beach.
“Tutoring in a formal environment is not for everyone so I have developed a group tutoring programme of study which sees children access more relaxed education, working across age groups to develop social skills and collaboration.
“For many years I have volunteered my time to support families and children affected by parental imprisonment, as well as my own lived experience. This has given me a unique understanding of different challenges families face.
“Wild Isle is excited to support families further by offering time to provide sessions with the national charity Appeal.”
News shared by Elle, in her own words. Ed
