Grace on a clifftop with horses
Grace Grade 4 & 5 Teacher

Grace

Grade 4 & 5 Teacher

background & bio

Grace's Experience

I began my academic journey with an undergraduate degree in Molecular Biology and Criminology from the University of Guelph, before travelling to Cardiff, Wales, to complete my teaching degree. One of the most formative parts of my experience has been my time working at an outdoor education centre, where I lead students in hands-on outdoor experiences, supported them as they tried new activities, and helped create positive and memorable experiences outside of the traditional classroom. Alongside my teaching experience, I have continued to work with children in both academic and recreational settings, which has given me the opportunity to connect with students in many different ways.

personal philosophy

Grace's Passions and Goals

I have always believed there is something special about getting kids outside, trying new things, and discovering what they are capable of. I want to encourage my students to be creative contributors and ambitious learners, while using hands-on experiences and time in nature to spark curiosity and build confidence. My goal is for students to challenge themselves, discover their strengths, and grow into their best selves with courage, resilience, and a sense of adventure.

Grace standing in Edinburgh
fun facts!

About Grace

I grew up locally and have always loved making the most of the incredible outdoors around us. I enjoy cross-country skiing, exploring local trails with my dog, and finding new places to discover. I also love to travel and have been fortunate enough to visit numerous countries, which has given me plenty of opportunities to experience different cultures, landscapes, and ways of life. When I'm taking a break from exploring, I'm happiest with a good book and a quiet place to read.

the wildE school team

Meet Our Team & Faculty

The exceptional and diverse team at WILDE School Blue Mountains is committed to transforming education through a mix of traditional and innovative strategies. We believe in every child's potential and guide them to become lifelong learners and future leaders.

Brayden-Plummer-Blue-Mountains-Wild-School-Faculty

Firstname

Position Title

Introduction to staff member.

Brayden Plummer Director of Education

Brayden

Director of Education

After getting over kicking himself for not starting something like WILDE School 20 years ago, Brayden is honoured to be a leading member of the WILDE team.

Laura Beattie Grade 2 & 3 Teacher

Laura

Grade 2 & 3 Teacher

Laura is a creative and driven educator who believes in the power of curiosity. She loves to facilitate the unique strengths and passions of her students, encouraging creativity and courage throughout the learning process.

Dave Bus Driver

Dave

The Wilde Bus Driver

Dave is the beloved driver of The Wilde Bus, known for his unwavering reliability, friendly demeanour, and the profound trust he has earned from both the parents and children of our school community.

Ali Bush Director

Ali

Director

Ali is an educational leader and one of the driving forces behind Wilde School Blue Mountains. At the heart of her work is a deeply personal goal: to help build the kind of school she wants her own children to grow up in.

Maria Hodgkinson Kindergarten EA

Maria

Kindergarten EA

"Hi, I’m Maria! I strive to help kids discover confidence and curiosity through outdoor learning. I love being part of an environment that supports growth, and I aim to build strong, supportive connections with students and staff."

Garrin Carter Substitute Teacher

Garrin

Substitute Teacher

Garrin is a passionate nature connection facilitator that uses bushcraft and survival skills to help others relate to their natural surroundings .

Leah Peyton Administrator & Camp Director

Leah

Administrator & Camp Director

Leah is a creative and passionate person focused on outdoor learning and weaving the WILDE way into every part of children’s lives—both inside and beyond WILDE.

Curtis Shepard Grade 5 & 6 Teacher

Curtis

Grade 5 & 6 Teacher

Curtis’s own lifelong learning goals and experiences thus far have embedded in him a sense of wonder that he seeks to share with his students.

Grace Grade 4 & 5 Teacher

Grace

Grade 4 & 5 Teacher

Jeff Barrett Founder & Executive Director

Jeff

Founder & Executive Director

Jeff is the visionary founder of WILDE School Blue Mountains, with a rich background in outdoor education and ecotourism, dedicated to fostering a new generation of passionate, educated changemakers through meaningful educational experiences.

Carly Gurr WILDE Friday & French

Carly

WILDE Friday & French

Carly is an adventurous educator with a rich background in international development, sustainability, and leadership.

CD Shrack Bushcraft & Leadership & The Arts

CD

Bushcraft & Leadership & The Arts

CD is a teacher and lifelong learner who inspires students through exploration, hands-on experiences, and opportunities to become well rounded, capable humans.

Diane Niec Kindergarten Teacher

Diane

Kindergarten Teacher

Diane is a multifaceted educator who combines her diverse skills to offer a uniquely immersive and creative learning experience.

Olivia Damsma Substitute Teacher

Olivia

Substitute Teacher

Olivia is our Music and French teacher, who values nature's classroom through nurturing creativity, curiosity, and connection through outdoor learning.

Leah Ramalho Substitute Teacher

Leah

Substitute Teacher

Leah is a dedicated outdoor educator with a strong background in environmental education and a deep commitment to connecting children with nature.

Pam Green Grade 1 & 2 Teacher

Pam

Grade 1 & 2 Teacher

Passionate about sustainability, creativity, and adventure, Pam brings learning to life through exploration, foraging, and connecting with the land. She also shares her love of horses, weaving stories and lessons from her lifelong journey.

Sophie Keil Grade 7 & 8 Teacher

Sophie

Grade 7 & 8 Teacher

"I strive to empower students as critical thinkers and independent learners, encouraging them to follow their interests while supporting their unique academic needs."

Interested in Joining the Team at Wilde School?

Empower the leaders of tomorrow and make a lasting difference in the world of education.