A naturalist is an educator who specializes in teaching about the natural world through hands-on, place-based experiences. In outdoor science schools, naturalists help learners explore ecosystems, wildlife, geology, and environmental processes by guiding them directly in nature.

Naturalists typically:

• Lead field hikes, nature explorations, and outdoor lessons
• Teach ecological and environmental science concepts
• Facilitate inquiry-based learning and scientific observation
• Model stewardship and outdoor ethics
• Connect students to local natural and cultural history
• Support confidence-building outdoors
• Ensure student safety and positive group management in the field

They often serve as the bridge between scientific content and the lived, sensory experience of being outdoors.