A Day in the Life of…
Liz MacKenzie, our Outdoor Learning Development Manager
As one of our longer-serving colleagues, Liz’s career with the Trust could be likened to a tree, firmly planted in the earlier years of our Outdoor Learning work, which she has since helped to grow into the strong, life-giving work it is today.
Liz’s roots go deep, stemming from an inspirational field trip in a patch of woodland she took as an A level Biology student, which prompted a pivot in her career path – switching lanes from Physiotherapy to an Ecology degree at Lancaster University.
Fast forward to today, and the fruits of that early encounter and the subsequent years spent sharing her love and knowledge of the outdoors are clearly visible in her current role.
On any given day, Liz engages in a host of activities and interactions, devising ways to develop Outdoor Learning, while delivering the wider cause of the Trust.
Today was an early start. Arriving with her arms full of packets of biscuits and jars of hot chocolate, as she helps two of our Outdoor Learning Leaders prepare for their Personal Development & Nurture sessions with two groups of Yr 7 and 8 students in nearby outdoor settings. Loading the car is a swift and well-practiced art!
As landowners and outdoor learning facilitators we have so much to share with the next generation of land custodians – the variety of roles in this sector continues to grow, in response to the prevailing nature and climate crisis.
Back in the office, Liz joins a virtual meeting with her fellow Designated Safeguarding Leads at the Trust – a vital role that requires ongoing diligence. Next, a meeting with Alison, our Research & Impact Lead to discuss evaluation of the Trust’s own Outdoor Learning sessions. Then, a conversation with Sarah, Head of Grants & Influence, to discuss preparations for an upcoming ‘Council for Learning Outside the Classroom’ webinar, where Liz is a speaker.
The day eventually ends with Liz catching up with her inbox and any outstanding tasks. When asked what keeps her working for the Ernest Cook Trust, (Liz joined in 2010) she unpacks a list of reasons which any prospective employee would do well to note: the variety of opportunity – for Liz this includes still being able to work directly with schools, interacting with pupils and teachers; the impact her work has on young people; the ability to progress in her role. Perhaps the most important element for Liz is related to one of the Trust’s values – ‘Freedom to Try’, which resonates the most with her role:
The Trust really believes in what it does and how it goes about fulfilling its vision – of land and lives enriching each other. Because we’re essentially self-funding, I have the freedom to focus on exploring ways to help children and young people thrive through connections to nature. It’s such a privilege.
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