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Sophie Moulson 1

Alumni Stories: How Sophie Turned Assignments into a Nature-Based Learning Initiative

It was the best decision I ever made. Every single assignment has shaped what I do now.

What began as a series of assignments has grown into a community initiative supporting families across Jersey.

Sophie Moulson began her journey reading Childhood Studies at University College Jersey. Through years of dedication and real-world experience, a growing passion for outdoor learning has transformed her academic work into Nature Base Jersey, a thriving initiative helping children and families connect through play and the natural environment.

Sophie’s journey through education was shaped by determination and balance. Starting with her Level 3 in Childhood Studies, she progressed through a foundation degree to achieve her BA (Hons), studying part-time over seven years while working and raising three children.

When we talked about Forest School and movement, it just clicked for me - this is how I wanted to help children learn and that’s where I could make a difference. Nature Base was really born out of that need to reconnect families.

The foundations of Nature Base Jersey can be traced directly back to her studies. In one of her earliest assignments, Sophie designed a play space in woodland in St Saviour, exploring how outdoor environments could support children’s movement, wellbeing, and emotional development.

But it was during the pandemic, while working as a Children and Families Development Officer, that Sophie saw a clear need emerging. She witnessed the impact of isolation on children’s socialisation, confidence, and communication skills, as well as the wider effects on family wellbeing.

At the heart of the programme is a simple approach: child-led, nature-based learning with activities ranging from sensory play and hammocks to water play, mud kitchens and Forest school. All of these designed to encourage exploration while supporting both children and parents. 

Sophie Moulson 2

It’s about giving children space to explore, while also supporting parents to connect and talk. Sometimes that happens best when you’re shoulder to shoulder, creating something together.

Today, Nature Base Jersey delivers pop-up sessions across the island, from woodlands to community spaces, offering inclusive opportunities for children and families to play, explore, and connect. Supported by local funding, including contributions from the Government’s Connect Me scheme, the sessions are designed to remain accessible to all.

Her work also extends to supporting children with additional needs, including delivering ‘Wild About Wellbeing’ programmes for neurodiverse families, ensuring that both children and parents benefit from time outdoors, creativity, and shared experiences.

Alongside the knowledge gained during her studies, Sophie values the professional network she built during her time at Highlands and University College Jersey. Many of her peers have gone on to work across education, mental health, and wellbeing, and continue to collaborate and reconnect.

For current students, Sophie’s message is clear: your work now can shape your future in ways you might not yet realise.

Sophie’s journey is a example of how education can extend far beyond the classroom. By turning ideas into action and learning into impact, she has created something that is not only professionally rewarding, but rooted in supporting Jersey's community.

Feeling inspired? Discover our courses in Childcare, Early years or Childhood studies by visiting our course pages here. 

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