Oscar’s Tree Academy is dedicated to making learning about trees and the natural world engaging, accessible, and fully aligned with the curriculum for children and educators across Early Years, Key Stage 1, and Key Stage 2, both indoors and outdoors.

The project is led by Mark Chester, who brings nearly 30 years of experience working with trees. Throughout his career, Mark has specialised in tree surveying and in understanding how trees grow, develop, and function. He has worked for three local authorities, taught at a further education college, and now works as a freelance tree surveyor.

Alongside his professional work in arboriculture, education has always been central to Mark’s career. He is passionate about inspiring the next generation, whether in the classroom, on a nature walk, or during woodland exploration sessions. For over 10 years, he also led an education and training project for fellow tree consultants through The Consulting Arborist Society.

Mark has extensive experience delivering learning sessions for a wide range of age groups and needs, from pre-school children and primary-aged pupils to older children with special educational needs (SEN). He has also supported teachers and parents in delivering high-quality educational resources. Mark is the author or co-author of all resources within the Oscar range, bringing his talent for making complex ideas easy to understand into every activity and lesson.

Paul Naylor brings more than 25 years of experience in regional press, having worked for two of the country’s largest newspaper groups. He concluded his newspaper career as Supplements Editor for the MNA Group.

Recognising the changing media landscape and the declining demand for print newspapers, Paul launched his own business, Media and You, in 2017. Since then, he has been in high demand for designing magazines, booklets, business literature, and books, often working with leading chefs and other professionals.

In 2021, Mark and Paul combined their expertise to develop Oscar the Oak and his friends, formally establishing Oscar’s Tree Academy.