School & Nature RVA
Run by Parents : Empowering Families, Illuminating Kids' Potential
100% Outdoor : Imagine a classroom with no walls, where the sun is the ceiling and the trees are the chalkboards. At our nature school, this is exactly what your child will experience—learning through play, every single day, all outside!
Mission and Philosophy:
At School & Nature RVA, our mission is to cultivate a love for learning through hands-on, nature-based education. We believe in nurturing each child's innate curiosity by providing a learning environment that emphasizes exploration, creativity, and emotional well-being. Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that children learn best when they are engaged with the natural world and are free to explore their interests at their own pace. We also recognize that parents play a crucial role in guiding the direction of the school and in strengthening the connection between school and home. Parents are invited to actively engage with the teacher, ask questions, and receive tips and knowledge to continue fostering their child’s learning and emotional growth at home, creating a seamless partnership for the child’s development
Teaching Approach:
Our teaching approach is centered around outdoor learning and nature-based education. We incorporate elements from the Reggio Emilia and Montessori philosophy, which emphasizes child-led learning, collaborative projects, and the importance of the environment as the "third teacher." We encourage children to ask questions, make discoveries, and develop a deep connection with the natural world around them.
Age Groups and Class Structure:
At School & Nature RVA, we currently offer a unique nature-based experience for children aged 3-5, fostering their curiosity and love for learning through outdoor exploration. Soon, we'll be welcoming the toddler classroom (ages 2-3) and Elementary Classroom (ages 6-8), followed by Advanced Elementary (ages 9-11) and Teens (ages 12-14) by the end of next year. This phased expansion will create a continuous journey of growth and discovery in nature for children of all ages.
When & Where
School & Nature RVA meets in beautiful, accessible parks around Richmond, providing children with daily opportunities to connect with nature. Our school operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with both morning and afternoon half-day options. Families have the flexibility to choose how many and which specific half or full days they wish to enroll, creating a schedule that best fits their needs and supports their child’s unique learning journey in the outdoors.
Who are we :
School & Nature RVA is a cooperative school where parents play an essential role in shaping their child’s educational experience. We encourage parents to be as involved as they choose, whether by joining outdoor activities, assisting with projects, or simply observing their child’s growth. As a co-op, parents have a voice in decision-making, including an annual review of the school budget, ensuring the experience is collaborative and aligned with their values. We value open communication with our teachers, who are not only guides for the children but also resources for parents seeking advice on their child’s development. This partnership extends learning opportunities beyond the classroom, allowing parents to gain insights, engage in activities, and support their child’s journey both at school and at home.
Tuition and Benefits: A Quality, Nature-Based Learning Experience :
At School & Nature RVA, the cost is $30 per half-day, with a flexible enrollment allowing families to choose 1 to 5 days per week. Enrollment includes access to a carefully designed curriculum, led by a knowledgeable, certified teacher with extensive experience. With a maximum of 7 children per class, we prioritize quality teaching and individual attention. For stability and shelter, we offer a mobile classroom, ensuring learning continues comfortably in all conditions. The cost also covers materials and a commitment to providing a structured, enriching experience within our co-op framework, where families are active contributors to the community.
Our Mobile Classroom: A Cozy Base for Outdoor Learning :
Our School & Nature RVA mobile classroom is a versatile, cozy space parked at the parks we attend, offering children shelter and stability while learning outdoors. This mobile unit provides a safe, comfortable environment to retreat to during inclement weather or for focused indoor activities when needed. Outfitted with essential materials and resources, it allows us to adapt to various locations while maintaining a familiar setting for the children. The mobile classroom ensures continuity and comfort, creating a reliable base for exploration while still keeping our focus on outdoor, nature-driven learning.