The team

The Thrive Outdoor team are a lively bunch. Our collective CV spans decades of experience in outdoor play and learning; from early learning practitioner to charity CEO. We live and breathe outdoor play and learning and have experienced successes and challenges at every level.

Ultimately, it’s our passion and commitment to harnessing the power of outdoor play and learning to positively impact children and young people in Scotland.  Our breadth of experience perfectly positions our team to support and advise organisations looking to increase their impact in outdoor play and learning.

Carolyn McFarlane

Outdoor and Nature Learning Lead

As Outdoor & Nature Based Learning Lead, Caroyln leads on our Nature Based Learning programmes, supporting the Thrive Outdoors portfolio,…

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Sarah Goldsmith

All Age Children Coordinator

Sarah is coordinating our work with Glasgow City Council’s Early Learning and Childcare team focused on engaging communities in outdoor…

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Julia Abel

Director of Funds

Julia draws on her extensive experience in leading charities and growing social enterprises gained as CEO of an Economic Development…

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Sarah Scott

Connected Communities Lead

As Connected Communities Lead, Sarah leads our community and place-based work. Sarah coordinates the Outdoor Community Play (OCP) fund which…

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Henry Mathias

Professional Development Manager

Henry is an experienced influencer with a passion for the outdoors and a track record in support quality provision for…

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Mairi Ferris

Programme Manager

As Programme Manager, Mairi leads and manages the Thrive Outdoors programme ensuring that Thrive Outdoors and our thematic areas of…

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Meg Ferguson

Healthy Lives Lead

As Happy, Healthy Lives Lead, Meg focuses on our work promoting outdoors and nature connection as a mechanism for improving…

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