I am a primary school teacher from the UK with a passion for inspiring young learners. My expertise lies in Kindergarten to Grade 1, with a special focus on phonics and early reading. I believe that every child can excel in reading when given the right book to spark their interest. My teaching journey began with a degree in Physical Education and experience as a PE teacher before pursuing Primary Education. With five years of teaching experience, I am committed to fostering a love for learning. In my free time, I enjoy hiking and exploring British Columbia’s scenery.​

​I hold a BA (Psychology and French) and a BEd in French Immersion from UBC. I have taught every grade from K-12, with a special passion for working with elementary learners. My teaching philosophy centers around Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and a Strength-Based approach, helping students build emotional intelligence, set positive goals, and develop empathy. One of my greatest joys is connecting with each child and nurturing their unique strengths. Growing up on the North Shore, I feel deeply connected to the ocean, mountains, and forests that inspire our nature-based learning.

Hi, I’m Jessica! I was born and raised in North Vancouver, and I’m happy to be back as an educator in the neighbourhood I grew up in. I have my BEd in Physical and Health Education from McGill University in Montreal, Quebec, along with two years of teaching experience there. I am very excited to be a part of the Saplings team as I believe that play-based learning is the foundation for all young learners. I aim to create a safe and inclusive environment where all students can truly express their curiosity and love of exploration and learning. My passions include yoga, hiking, and veganism. I look forward to sharing my experience of mindfulness, empathy, authenticity, and appreciation of the outdoors to your children. 

Hello, I am Ishwar! I have completed a Bachelor of Psychology and a Bachelor of Education in Ontario, where I specialized in primary and junior education. For the past several years I have been working as an educator in both private and public schools within Ontario and now here in BC. Prior to teaching, I worked in various settings with children and youth with special abilities. Through this work, I have learned the importance of approaching my work through a strength-based and trauma-informed lens. I am passionate about supporting childrens' creativity and helping develop their care, respect, and an appreciation for the world around them. In my spare time I enjoy cooking, reading, and being active. 

​I am a passionate educator dedicated to supporting young learners’ growth. My journey began in college, working as a babysitter and tutor for toddlers and elementary students. I hold a BA in Sociology from the UBC and have completed an Early Childhood Educator Assistant Course. I strive to create a safe, engaging environment where children can explore nature and develop creativity, resilience, and social connections. Inspired by the concept of "risky play," I value outdoor learning experiences. In my free time, I enjoy camping, skiing, hiking, and visiting Vancouver Island.

Hello! I’m Parisa, an Early Childhood Educational Assistant (ECEA) passionate about nurturing children in a nature-based environment. Originally from Iran, I grew up surrounded by nature, spending countless hours exploring the outdoors and observing wildlife. This early connection to the natural world greatly shaped my educational philosophy. I believe that play and exploration in natural settings foster creativity, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. I’m thrilled to be part of your child’s journey at Saplings, where I can support their growth through meaningful outdoor experiences and help them develop a deep connection to the environment.

Growing up in Banff National Park, nature was my playground and classroom, sparking a lifelong passion for the outdoors. My childhood adventures—cross-country skiing, hiking, and exploring—instilled in me a deep love for the natural world. For the past decade, I’ve shared my passion through diverse roles in education and childcare, from guiding preschoolers to leading youth programs and organizing outdoor camps. Saplings Nature School is a perfect fit, allowing me to blend my love for nature with my commitment to education. I believe nature inspires curiosity, builds resilience, and teaches invaluable life lessons.

Hello! I am an educator with over a decade of experience and a passion for play-based and inclusive learning. I hold a bachelor’s degree from a university in Iran and a master’s degree in Leadership in Education (K–12) from Trinity Western University. I am also a certified Early Childhood Education Assistant (ECEA), with additional training in autism, neurodiversity, and special education. I bring creativity, compassion, and dedication to supporting every child’s unique potential in the outdoor classroom.

Hi! I’m from the North Shore and have also lived in Colorado and California. I hold a degree in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from SFU and am completing my ECE certification at UBC. I live in Lonsdale with my husband Ben and our cats, Stella and Jack. I’ve worked at Science World as a facilitator and in a research lab at SFU. I love sharing my passion for the natural world, sports, crafting, and being in nature—especially at the beach. I completed practicums at Saplings and am developing preschool science workshops. Feel free to ask me about science, sports, or STEM!

Hi, I'm Ylene! I was born and raised in the Netherlands. I just moved (with my boyfriend) to North Vancouver in August. I have my social work degree, and I worked at a psychiatric children's center for the past 10 years. In addition to work, I think it's important to be active. I love playing field hockey and enjoy a good hike. I'm very excited to work at Saplings Nature School because I believe that children can learn best in their own way. I think it's important that every child can be themselves and that attention is paid to the possibilities that every child has. 

Hi, I’m Phillip Mooder! I grew up on Vancouver’s North Shore, surrounded by mountains, ocean, and a community that taught me the importance of connection. Those early experiences shaped my belief that learning happens best when we feel safe, supported, and valued.

I spent 11 years ski racing, which taught me focus, perseverance, and the power of encouragement. Since then, I’ve worked with children in many settings—from teaching surfing and English through Surfing the Nations to leading youth programs at Keats Camps and supporting students at Saplings Nature School. I’m passionate about helping kids build confidence and feel inspired to learn.