Our Philosophy

At the heart of ReCreatioN is a simple but radical philosophy: that children—and their parents—thrive when learning feels alive, purposeful, and rooted in the real world. We believe in project-based learning , playful missions where problems are solved, and hands-on experiences that honour curiosity over conformity. Our spaces are designed with care, our food is shared with intention, and our rhythms follow the seasons, not the school bell. We’re rebuilding the village not as a nostalgic ideal, but as a living, breathing alternative to disconnection—where creativity, community, and meaningful work come together in daily life.

Joyful learning through fantastically natural experiences

Our Team

United by our Mission

Louisa
Co-Founder, Mum and Director

Louisa has always been a world-builder. As a child, she spent hours creating imaginary shops, teaching teddies, and curating tiny museums out of wildflowers and trinkets. That early love of storytelling and play led her into teaching—but the system broke her heart. When asked to coach a beloved, eccentric teacher out of her job, Louisa walked away instead.

She went on to co-found an education company rooted in nature, creativity, and individuality—running camps and clubs that put children’s passions at the centre. Now at ReCreatioN, Louisa designs immersive, child-led experiences that honour imagination, beauty, and purpose. Whether it’s a mission, a classroom, or a moment of magic, she invites families into a different way of learning—one that’s brave, joyful, and deeply human.

Co-Founder, Dad and Education Director

Justin began as a mainstream teacher in the French system and abroad, but left the classroom in 2011 to build something freer. He co-founded First Hand Experiences, running nature-based camps and clubs where children learned through play, fire-building, foraging, and real-world adventures.

Now based in a reimagined silk factory in rural France, he’s creating a new kind of village alongside Louisa—one rooted in creativity, courage, and connection. A nourisher at heart, Justin brings vision, storytelling, and the belief that learning should feel alive—for children and their grown-ups alike.

Lead Grower

John Buscarino is a lifelong gardener and permaculture guide whose work brings ecosystems back to life—one garden, one child, one compost pile at a time. With dirt under his nails and stories tucked into his pockets, John teaches not just how to grow food, but how to grow in relationship with the land. He has designed edible landscapes across climates and continents, always with a focus on sustainability, soil health, and shared learning. At ReCreatioN, John leads our living garden projects, involving children and families in the full cycle of planting, tending, and harvesting. His approach is hands-on, joyful, and rooted in the belief that gardens are the best classrooms we’ll ever build.

Natural Chef

Pati Nunes is a passionate natural food chef with a gift for turning humble, wholesome ingredients into meals that nourish body and soul. Rooted in traditional cooking methods and inspired by the rhythms of nature, Pati sees food as a powerful tool for connection, healing, and joy. Her kitchen is a space of intention—where fermentation jars bubble quietly and children are welcome to stir, taste, and learn.

With a background in plant-based cuisine and years of experience cooking for families in retreat and co-living settings, Pati brings warmth, creativity, and deep care to every plate. Her mission goes beyond food—she is training the next generation of chefs through our charity programme, teaching young people how to prepare meals with purpose and love.

Returning the child to the village for us means a place where children and adults are surrounded by mentors—authentic role models who exemplify purposeful living and integrity. Our approach is rooted in rekindling intergenerational learning, where wisdom is passed down through shared experiences rather than textbooks. Central to this vision is our Ikigai Apprenticeship Programme, where teens engage with resident artisans to explore their passions and uncover their unique purpose. By fostering environments that blend creativity, nature, and community, we aim to create spaces where every individual can thrive, rediscovering the joy of learning and the essence of being.

Volunteer with us

Join our lil crew at the Mill this season!

Our doors are always open to those who want to come and experience life in the Ardèche with our family and team.

We are currently on the look for people experienced in:

- Cooking

- Gardening

- General Maintenance

- DIY

- Education

Overall, we are looking for passionate people with the same intentions as us - a life that is connected with nature, passionate about community, and are driven to support the needs of children.

Keen to join us - contact us here

Join Our Nation

Experiences for All

Whether you are a worldschooler seeking a long-term stay or looking for a summer holiday that combines the spirit of a festival with the tranquility of a laid-back retreat, we invite you to become part of our community. Immerse yourself in pristine nature, savor delicious food, and connect with our warm and creative team, ready to make your experience unforgettable.

Sign up here