About Tracking

Tracking was our first ever science. We have been tracking ever since, and probably before, we evolved into Homo sapiens. It was fundamental in our search for food and hence our survival. Anyone can track. We've just forgotten how. As our brains evolved we started to improve on interpreting the signs the animals left behind, which eventually led us to more ingenious way of following, finding and catching our quarry.

About Hatfield Forest

We are based at Hatfield Forest, Essex. Hatfield is owned and managed by the National Trust. It is an ancient hunting forest mentioned in the Doomsday book. The Forest covers 1,049 acres of woodland, wood-pasture with ancient trees, lake and marsh. It is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a National Nature Reserve.

About Pablo

Founder and lead instructor

Pablo served in the British Army for 12 years specialising as a Physical Training Instructor and expedition leader. His second career was in law enforcement and culminated in him being a senior detective in a UK law enforcement agency. He has a Masters degree in Training and Development. More below.

About Hannah

Level 3 instructor

Hannah has been involved with Woodlife since early 2012. She also worked for the National Trust at Hatfield Forest and was a Business Development Manager in the Scouts Association. She is now a qualified massage therapist, yoga instructor and nutrition advisor. She has a BA (Hons) in Travel and Tourism Management. Hannah is a level 3 Instructor with Woodlife and has completed her Diploma level 4.

About Trooper

Level 3 instructor

Trooper or Troops has been with us for over 12 years starting his journey in the first Wilderness Immersion Course. He has now completed his Diploma Level 3 and is a level 3 instructor. He has been on all our expeditions to Croatia and South Africa and continues to be a main-stay of Woodlife.

About the Team

Woodlife cannot function without our team of assistants, mentors, and logistics officers. A special thanks to our 2020 team: Tom (Trainee Instructor); John (Mentor); Tony (Mentor); Vince (Logistics); George (Assistant/Mentor)

About Our Fire

Our virtual fire has been going on our website since 2004. When we are in the Forest, like many indigenous peoples, the first thing we do is light a fire normally by starting it from a cold ember of the last fire. The fire keeps us warm, purifies our water, cooks our food and provides us with a sense of safety and well-being. No-one is turned away from our fire.