Director of Education
After getting over kicking himself for not starting something like WILDE School 20 years ago, Brayden is honoured to be a leading member of the WILDE team.
Leaving his home near the river, Brayden began to teach experiential and outdoor education for a variety of centres and school boards.
After teachers college he reluctantly made the transition to a more traditional educational setting at Pretty River Academy where he taught for 15 years. During a challenging time for PRA Brayden assumed the role of Headmaster and helped grow the school population from 64 to 110 students in 3 years.
In 2017 he launched his educational consulting company Out of the Woods Education to provide solutions for the challenges he identified in the education industry. Looking for an outdoor school for his own children, the stars aligned and Brayden connected with WILDE School.
Brayden’s educational philosophy revolves around some simple truths:
- Nature is the best classroom.
- Strong foundational skills in literacy and mathematics are key to future success.
- Respect, fun and hard work are paramount for teaching.
- Teaching students how to think critically and to have a passion for learning are the greatest skills for achieving sustainable happiness.
Brayden grew up in rural Ontario exploring the woods and farmland surrounding the Nith river. On his 9th birthday he was deemed ready to be initiated into the world of Fly Fishing. This gift became a lifelong obsession that led to the discovery of his calling in Education and helped support him through his post secondary educational studies in literature and philosophy.
Meet Our Team & Faculty
The exceptional and diverse team at WILDE School Blue Mountains is committed to transforming education through a mix of traditional and innovative strategies. We believe in every child's potential and guide them to become lifelong learners and future leaders.
Firstname
Position Title
Introduction to staff member.
Pam
Grade 1 & 2 Teacher
Passionate about sustainability, creativity, and adventure, Pam brings learning to life through exploration, foraging, and connecting with the land. She also shares her love of horses, weaving stories and lessons from her lifelong journey.
Shelagh
Grade 2 & 3 Teacher
Shelagh is an educator with experience teaching students all over the globe.
Sophie
Grade 7 & 8 Teacher
"I strive to empower students as critical thinkers and independent learners, encouraging them to follow their interests while supporting their unique academic needs."
Ali
Director of Teaching and Learning / Teacher
Ali inspires her students to be engaged, critical thinkers and creative problem solvers through her interactive teaching approach, deeply rooted in respect for the environment and a passion for healthy active living.
Diane
Kindergarten Teacher
Diane is a multifaceted educator who combines her diverse skills to offer a uniquely immersive and creative learning experience.
Curtis
Grade 5 & 6 Teacher
Curtis’s own lifelong learning goals and experiences thus far have embedded in him a sense of wonder that he seeks to share with his students.
Dave
The Wilde Bus Driver
Dave is the beloved driver of The Wilde Bus, known for his unwavering reliability, friendly demeanour, and the profound trust he has earned from both the parents and children of our school community.
Jeff
Founder & Executive Director
Jeff is the visionary founder of WILDE School Blue Mountains, with a rich background in outdoor education and ecotourism, dedicated to fostering a new generation of passionate, educated changemakers through meaningful educational experiences.
Garrin
Naturalist and Bushcraft Instructor
Garrin is a passionate nature connection facilitator that uses bushcraft and survival skills to help others relate to their natural surroundings .
Olivia
Music/French Teacher
Olivia is our Music and French teacher, who values nature's classroom through nurturing creativity, curiosity, and connection through outdoor learning.
Leah
Leadership & WILDE Friday Director & Occasional Teacher
Leah is a dedicated outdoor educator with a strong background in environmental education and a deep commitment to connecting children with nature.
Leah
Program Director / Camp Director
Leah is a creative and passionate person focused on outdoor learning and weaving the WILDE way into every part of children’s lives—both inside and beyond WILDE.
Maria
Kindergarten EA
"Hi, I’m Maria! I strive to help kids discover confidence and curiosity through outdoor learning. I love being part of an environment that supports growth, and I aim to build strong, supportive connections with students and staff."
CD
Grade 4 & 5 Teacher
CD is a teacher and lifelong learner who inspires students through exploration, hands-on experiences, and opportunities to become well rounded, capable humans.
Brayden
Director of Education
After getting over kicking himself for not starting something like WILDE School 20 years ago, Brayden is honoured to be a leading member of the WILDE team.
Interested in Joining the Team at Wilde School?
Empower the leaders of tomorrow and make a lasting difference in the world of education.