LIZ PARKES

Liz is an outdoor instructor who runs the Activity Clubs and works with our KS2 & KS3 Alternative provision groups . Liz has over 20 years of creative experience in the graphic design industry. Over the last ten years she has worked as a swimming teacher, triathlon coach and outdoor instructor, introducing hundreds of children and adults, from 12weeks to 88 years, to the joys of outdoor activity. Alongside that, she has worked in an allotment garden for over 15years, using her skills with tools to build many birdhouses, fences, and raised beds along the way ... even a pirate ship veg plot! With a passion for the outdoors, she loves passing on her skills and seeing others grow in confidence in all aspects of what they do. Through her work Liz has worked with children and adults with a range of learning and physical abilities and is always keen to ensure that every individual of a group gains something from their experience and comes away with a smile (even when it can’t be shown on the outside).

Jenny

Jenny is our Early Years Coordinator, and is the instructor for groups for our EYFS and KS1 Alternative provision as well as running the Mini Adventurers Club.

Before moving to the Peak District, Jenny worked for 10 years as a Primary Teacher in Scotland, specialising in the Early Years. Since moving to the Peak, she has been an Outdoor Education Officer, delivering curriculum linked outdoor learning sessions to primary schools across Derbyshire.

Jenny has an Outdoor Learning Level 2 qualification, and a degree in Environmental Science.

When not at Dukes Barn, Jenny is usually found out walking her dog, looking after her chickens and pottering around her garden at home.