New year, new chapter: Moving on announcement

Our CEO, Carley Sefton, reflects on eight years leading Learning through Landscapes and shares a heartfelt message about the journey ahead.

As we step into 2025, it marks eight years since I had the privilege of being appointed CEO of Learning through Landscapes (LtL). What a journey it has been! From making snow angels in a Glasgow pre-school to speaking at COP28, a no. 1 bestselling book, and navigating the challenges of a global pandemic, even in the hardest times these years have been everything I could have hoped for — and so much more.

But as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. After careful reflection, I believe that the best way to ensure a bright future for LtL is to close this chapter and allow someone else to write the next, with fresh ideas and new energy. As a result, I have made the decision to step down as CEO of LtL this summer.

For 35 years, LtL has been a pioneer in creating projects, training, and resources with global influence. We have relentlessly championed the importance of school grounds, how they can provide daily connection to nature, be a place for amazing play, and — my favourite — create moments of awe and wonder to foster a deeper understanding of, and care for, our planet. This mission remains at the heart of everything we do. I firmly believe that small, dynamic charities like LtL play an essential role in the sector, delivering impactful work with quiet determination, often punching well above our weight with knowledge and expertise.

I know I could happily stay at LtL for the rest of my working career, but I also believe that for any organisation to thrive, there comes a time when leadership must evolve. I am genuinely excited to see who will take the helm and what new directions LtL will explore in the coming years. They will have the most incredible team to support them — who I love working with every day. People who choose to work in the charity sector rarely do it for money or glamour; they do it out of a passion and a desire to use their knowledge and skills to make the world a better place and, in my opinion, the LtL team represents the best of the best.

Learning through Landscapes will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am so incredibly proud to have played a part in its remarkable story. So, thank you to everyone who has supported us through these unforgettable years. And here’s to writing the next chapter — for LtL and for me.

Carley x

Carley Sefton, CEO, Learning through Landscapes

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