Meet the Team
Founder and Director
Richard Scofield
Richard is the founder and director of Wild Embers. He is a qualified Forest School Leader (Level 3) with extensive experience in outdoor education. As the Safeguarding Lead, Richard ensures the safety and well-being of all participants. He holds Level 3 qualifications in both Paediatric and Outdoor First Aid, allowing him to manage emergencies in nature-based settings. With over eight years of experience as a specialist SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) support worker, Richard is passionate about creating inclusive and enriching outdoor experiences for all.
Transitional Support Programme Lead
Mel Triggs
Mel is the Therapeutic Outdoor Lead and Alternative Provision Lead at Wild Embers, where she combines her expertise in outdoor education and therapeutic practices to create inspiring environments for growth and healing. As a trained Forest School Coordinator and Instructor, Mel is dedicated to making meaningful connections with children through nature. She is trained in Paediatric and Outdoor First Aid, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all learners. With a background in EYFS education, community care and nursery nursing Mel brings a deep understanding of child development and well-being, enriching the lives of those she works with.
Fundraising Lead and Head of Policy
Alex Gostwick
Alex is the Operations and Fundraising Lead and Head of Policy at Wild Embers, bringing a strategic approach to securing resources and shaping impactful policies. A Level 3 Qualified Forest School Leader and Deputy Safeguarding Lead, Alex is dedicated to ensuring safe, inclusive, and enriching outdoor experiences for all participants. Trained in Paediatric and Outdoor First Aid, Alex is well-prepared to handle any challenges in outdoor settings. With a 1st Class BA in Psychology and Sociology, Alex applies a deep understanding of human behavior and societal structures to create meaningful, transformative opportunities for the Wild Embers community.
General Manager
Thea Platt
Thea is the General Manager at Wild Embers and is an experienced project manager within the charity sector and brings a wealth of knowledge to her work at Wild Embers.
As a qualified coach, she specialises in supporting leaders of social enterprises, charities, and ethical businesses, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their goals.
Thea is also a trainee psychotherapist, with a deep interest in mental health and well-being. She holds a Diploma in Relational Mindfulness, which informs her compassionate and mindful approach to her work.
Marketing and Communications Officer
Rachael Miles
Rachael is the Communications and Marketing Officer at Wild Embers, bringing over 15 years of experience in PR, marketing, media, and events. Rachael excels in copywriting, social media strategy, and communications.
Rachael is creative and resourceful, and loves nothing more than crafting compelling narratives and developing social media strategies. With a passion for storytelling and connecting with people, Rachael is dedicated to sharing the mission of Wild Embers with the wider community.
Our Directors
Richard Scofield
Donald Young
Dawn Shade
Adam Rasmussen
Board of Governors
Matthew Shanks
Originally hailing from Manchester, Matthew has worked as a teacher in education for 30 years, as a teacher, senior leader, Headteacher, Executive Headteacher and chair of governors. He has led both secondary and primary schools out of special measures and is motivated by improving ‘cultures’ and providing ‘opportunities’ for all children to succeed, not just boosting examination outcomes. Currently Matthew is CEO of Education South West, a multi-academy trust educating children age 2-18. Within this he also leads a research school, teaching school hub and initial teacher training institute. A designated National Leader of Education, as well as a lead Ofsted inspector at primary and secondary level, he is the current chair of the Secondary Headteachers’ Reference Group at the Department for Education. As a level 7 executive coach and mentor Matthew works closely with all who seek to make things better for children and staff in schools. Recently he was seconded 2 days a week to Devon County Council as the Interim Head of Education (Strategy). “Education is a force for change. Teachers and leaders should work together across educational settings for the good of all children; only by leading with humility will we truly help the children, young people and communities we serve.”
Tina Rodwell-Lynn
Tina has been a teacher, leader and headteacher throughout her 28 years in the field of education and is passionate about growing outstanding global citizens who will become the future leaders and change makers. Tina has seen first hand the differences that child led learning can have on individuals and institutions, when underpinned by the Articles from the UNCRC. She has also seen the differences that can be achieved when the classroom is taken outside and explore the curriculum through the natural environment. Having recently returned from 4 years in India, where Tina set up and ran a Rights Respecting school in the slums of Delhi, she is really excited about supporting the Wild Embers team in their outstanding work in supporting children in their learning journey.
Alternative Provision Governor
Details of our new alternative provision governor coming soon!
Testimonials
“My boy has blossomed at Wild Embers, he loves it... I have noticed the confidence and interests he has on different topics; he learns best hands on and with his needs, he feels happier being in this environment, he’s never had a bad day its always been his best day ever."
Parent whose child attended Wild Adventurers Holiday Club
Our Partners
