About us
"Right that's it, we are off out to play in the woods….and we'd like to take some people with us."
The Land
Sawpit Woods is mangaged as part of Hodore Farm where we are seeking to improve the land and its natural systems for the good of all life.
As present land stewards here, we aim for our presence to be ecologically beneficial and even regenerative. The woodlands are managed to improve biodiversity and foster relationship between humans and all life. We recognise that we are part of the natural world and so aim to act in reciprocity, respect and love.
If you are interested in getting involved, or have a passion or knowledge in the ecology and management of woodlands, we would love to hear from you.
Our Vision
Our vision remains the same; to provide a space for experience of connection; with others, self and in nature. We aim to provide enriching, fun and creative experiences for all generations in reciprocal relationship with the land. Our work is motivated by a deep concern for the need to build human-nature connection and a belief in the restorative powers and joy that spending time in the woods can bring.
Our Story
Having spent over forty years playing and learning by doing in the Sawpit Woods and fields on the farm where we grew up... Lou & Em both found themselves working in roles connected to the outdoors, environment and children.
Sawpit Woods grew from our wish to share this special place with others and a natural progression from our experience and expertise in Forest School leadership, outdoor learning and environmental education, art and early years teaching, expeditions, farm management and charity work. We are particularly influenced by our time with Forest School Camps and by the land and environment around us, on the farm where we lived as children.
As a Forest School Leader and reception teacher at the local school, Lou spent many years developing a brilliant programme including holiday clubs (in the dark!) and community events that brought many young families in the comunity to the woods. We are so grateful for all of her hard work, as well as support from the farm and family.
With joys and challenges of life including growing families, covid and health changes, moving house and farm transition, management of Sawpit Woods has evolved to its new story and offerings.
We can't wait to see whats will evolve in this next chapter
Such a nourishing time in the woods in concentric circles of community, hearth, human family, standing ones (trees) and beyond. Space to be heard, space to listen, all children held collectively giving space for us all to breathe and be our better selves. Learning from noticing each other and how we do things differently or are different. Space. Acceptance. Laughter. Shared stories. Discovery. Didn't know how much I needed it until I experienced it. Thank you to the woods and the glorious sisters who held us all with loving attention ❤️
