Veronica McGuire - Heritage Experts | Heritage in Schools

Veronica McGuire

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Veronica Mc Guire
Subject(s):
Science, History, Geography
Curriculum Strands:
Story (History), Continuity and change over time (History), Natural environments (Geography), Environmental awareness and care (Geography/Science), Living things (Science), Materials (Science), Energy and forces (Science)
Counties catered for:
Clare, Galway, Limerick
Classes catered for:
All Classes

Book in-person visit


To spend time in a woodland is to spend time completely immersed in nature.

Veronica McGuire of Badger & Blackbird Forest School has been a practising Forest School leader since completing her training in 2017 and she is a passionate believer in the Forest School ethos. By engaging in weekly nature-connection activities in the same woodland location, and under Veronica’s experienced guidance, children will be inspired with a deeper love and understanding of the wild world that is on their doorstep.

Veronica founded Badger & Blackbird Forest School in 2025, to continue the wonderful work done under Happy Out Forest School, her previous venture.

Veronica runs 6-week Forest School programmes at Lee’s Road Amenity Park for schools close to Ennis. Schools further away may have their own local woodlands close by, where Forest School sessions could take place, e.g. Dromore Woods, Garryland Nature Reserve etc. The cost of the 6th and last visit is fully covered by the Heritage Council and is free to the school.

Veronica's Forest School sessions take place entirely out of doors beneath the canopy of the woodland. Children spend approximately 2 hours each week in the same woodland location, with each session following a similar structure: opening circle, work sheet, nature connection game, craft, free play activity. A weekly rhythm develops which helps the children to feel comfortable and at home in the woodland environment, fostering a lovely sense of community. Specific activities include bush/nature craft, den building, low ropes, learning about native species, story and song.

Over the 6 weeks of the Forest School programme, the children will start to observe not only the plants, insects and birds that are easily visible but also the homes, tracks and trails of animals that are not – and this can be almost as rewarding as seeing the animal itself! Veronica allows time and space for this incidental learning to place, as curiosity is where deep learning begins. Veronica’s kindness, knowledge and ability to hold a group, ensures that a Forest School experience will never be forgotten.

For larger school groups, Veronica may collaborate with another Forest School leader from the Heritage in Schools panel so that there will be two certified Forest School leaders overseeing activities. This frees up the accompanying teacher, allowing them to engage with the class in a less hands-on way, and to observe the children outside of a classroom setting. If approved for funding there will be no additional cost to the school - this additional funding is provided by the Heritage Council, is subject to available budget and based on schools meeting certain criteria.

Veronica co-founded Happy Out Forest School, which ran from 2017 to 2024. Over its 7-year existence, Happy Out Forest School was attended regularly by schools in Ennis and beyond, and was a firm favourite with teachers, parents and children alike. Veronica now brings her knowledge and expertise forward as Badger & Blackbird Forest School, continuing to adhere to the ethos and principles underpinning an authentic Forest School experience.

Testimonials

  • "Over six weeks, Third Class have had a truly wonderful time at Forest School. From the very beginning, the children immersed themselves in nature, learning all about local wildlife, trees, plants, and the changing seasons. Their curiosity and excitement grew each week as they explored the outdoors and discovered something new. One of the highlights for the class was the teamwork games and group challenges. These activities not only brought lots of laughter and fun but also helped build strong friendships and cooperation among the children. They particularly loved building swings, creating woodland artwork, and learning how to safely light small campfires – all under careful guidance of Veronica and Siobhan who were both fantastic with the children. Woodwork sessions were another big hit, giving the children a chance to use real tools and develop hands-on skills in a safe and creative way. Overall, Forest School has been a joyful and enriching experience. The children have gained confidence, learned practical skills, deepened their appreciation of nature, and – most importantly – had an absolutely brilliant time!" - Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg, Clare
  • "A fantastic and positive experience all round." - Barefield NS, Clare

Additional Information

  • Provides in-person visits
  • Caters for special needs
  • Provides practical/hands-on activities
  • Provides field trips

Contact Details

Phone (Work):
083 827 0075
Mobile:
083 827 0075
Email:
badgerandblackbird@gmail.com