Blenheim Lane, Nottingham, NG6 8UR
Meet the Team
Gemma Robertson - Head of Provision & DSL
Gemma has dedicated over 20 years to working with Nottinghamshire’s most vulnerable children and young people, providing care, support, and guidance to those who need it most. Her extensive experience includes supporting individuals with autism, ADHD, challenging behaviours, self-harm tendencies, and young people affected by Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE), Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) and Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEET) .
Throughout her career, Gemma has worked closely with a wide range of professionals and services, including social care, schools and colleges, families, CAMHS, the child protection team, and the Looked After Children (LAC) team. Her multi-agency experience has given her a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges that vulnerable young people face, allowing her to tailor support in a way that is effective, compassionate, and person-centred.
Gemma has a strong knowledge and understanding of trauma-informed approaches, recognising the long-term impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the importance of providing a safe, nurturing, and understanding environment for young people to heal and grow. She believes in building trust, creating stability, and fostering resilience in those who have faced significant challenges in their lives.
A firm believer in the power of nature and outdoor environments, Gemma understands how access to green spaces, fresh air, and interaction with animals can positively impact mental health and well-being. She has seen first-hand how nature can be a powerful tool for emotional regulation, self-discovery, and personal development, which is why Alternative Acres is built upon the foundation of therapeutic, nature-based learning and support.
With a passion for making a difference, Gemma continues to be an advocate for vulnerable young people, helping them navigate their challenges, build confidence, and find a path towards a brighter future.
Eddie Lee - mentor
Eddie is a dedicated bushcraft instructor with a passion for sharing traditional skills and outdoor knowledge in a way that is engaging, practical, and accessible for all learners. With extensive experience in working with children and young people, Eddie has a calm and encouraging teaching style that helps participants feel safe to explore, experiment, and take on new challenges.
Through hands-on bushcraft sessions, Eddie brings the natural world to life, from fire-lighting and shelter building to tool use and woodland crafts. His focus is not just on teaching practical skills, but also on helping learners build resilience, independence, and problem-solving abilities that extend far beyond the woodland.
Eddie plays an important role in creating a supportive and adventurous learning environment. He takes pride in nurturing confidence, teamwork, and curiosity in every group he works with, ensuring that bushcraft is both a valuable learning journey and an unforgettable experience.
Kirsty Dexter - Mentor
Kirsty brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to supporting young people, particularly those with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and those who are home educated. With many years of hands-on experience in alternative education settings, Kirsty has a natural ability to connect with learners in a way that is both compassionate and empowering.
As the founder and owner of Urban Bushcraft, Kirsty combines her passion for the outdoors with a strong belief in the benefits of experiential learning. She thrives on teaching survival skills and helping young people develop confidence, resilience, and practical knowledge through nature-based activities. Her sessions are engaging, inclusive, and designed to nurture both personal growth and a sense of adventure.
At Alternative Acres, Kirsty plays a key role in mentoring learners, offering not only her skills and expertise but also her warmth, patience, and genuine enthusiasm for helping young people thrive.
Dominique Letitia Street - Volunteer mentor
Dominique as our Volunteer Mentor at Alternative Acres. Dominique is a dedicated and compassionate individual, bringing with her a wealth of personal and practical experience. As a proud mum of five wonderful children, she has developed deep insight and understanding of Special Educational Needs (SEN), gained through her lived experience supporting and advocating for her own children.
Alongside her family responsibilities, Dominique has been a committed member of her local community, volunteering on the Youth and Play Committee where she served as part of the management team. In this role, she was a passionate advocate for young people, working to ensure their voices were heard and their needs met in community settings.
Dominique also brings a love of the outdoors and a strong connection to the animals on our farm. She is particularly confident and knowledgeable around the animals, with a special fondness for the chickens. Her calm and nurturing presence makes her a natural fit for mentoring young people in a therapeutic farm setting, where she combines her personal experience, advocacy skills, and animal care knowledge to provide positive, empathetic support.
Dominique’s warm personality, dedication to helping others, and hands-on experience make her a valued and inspiring member of the Alternative Acres team.