Nature Nurtures Academy
Where Nature is The Classroom.
How The Seeds of Nature Nurtures Were Planted
Welcome to the wonderful world of nature based education!
My name is Ashley Lord, I am a mom of 2, an Ontario certified teacher, and the founder behind Nature Nurtures Academy. I am fueled with passion and a deep understanding of child development; driven by a dream of reshaping the perspective of what education should look like for our children.
Nature Nurtures began as a nature and farm based private pre-school at Serenity Rising, a childhood friend's generational farm. We were incredibly fortunate to have had 2 meaningful and insightful years providing pre-school and collaborating with the farm hosting summer camps where we spent our days connecting with the land and the 50+ animals cared for on the farm. It was truly the most unique privilege to witness the impact not only learning outdoors had on the children but in connecting to the land and the animals the children developed a beautiful natural understanding of empathy towards all living things. This was when I really started realizing the power behind reshaping the environment in which children learn, expectations surrounding how a lesson is delivered and the many ways it can actually be assessed, as well as the "WHY" - the general purpose behind what is being taught/learned paired with a connection to real life experiences.
Not only are children able to retain information more quickly while learning in and through nature and the natural environment but they make connections with a deeper understanding. Not only are they thriving intellectually they are also thriving mentally, emotionally, socially, physically, spiritually and creatively - the holistic approach.
When our time at Serenity sadly had to come to an end, (we welcomed our second daughter into the world and the farm changed ownership), it was bittersweet. However, even though there were obstacles to be faced and self-doubt lingering the pilot light never went out. The flame was still inside ready to ignite the moment the wind blew the next opportunity that felt right in my direction.
How Nature Nurtures Sprouted
Change, especially change that feels out of our control or unexpected can often bring feelings of defeat, but how we choose to respond and resurface is what truly displays character. Change allows opportunity for self-reflection and growth. I would be lying if I said I didn't have moments of self-doubt during that time of uncertainty and transition but ultimately I could not shake this inner feeling that this is where and what I am meant to be doing!
I followed my intuition and another unparallel opportunity to relocate Nature Nurtures Academy came to reassure me I was on the right path. Only this time I am working from a blank canvas, every inch of earth turned, every space created will have been move and designed with purposeful intention.
Keep in mind this is an outdoor nature-based school, the idea is to be immersed in nature and the natural world as much of our day as possible. I wanted our indoor space to reflect the same atmosphere, so rather than building a schoolhouse I decided to build a greenhouse as our "indoor" learning space.
I am currently seeking out interest from the public. Ideally I would love to be able to offer both part-time and full-time options to ages 3.8- 14 years old, with the future objective of expanding to offer a variety of alternative programs and drop-in classes for all ages. For now, I would love for you to participate in the survey provided in the link below to gain insight on what families are currently in need of or looking to seek alternatively.
Nature Nurtures Academy will fluidly incorporate a personal concoction of teaching methods and philosophies that collectively align with and weave together a balance of student-centered approaches - building practical life skills, project and inquiry and play-based opportunities, collaborative and independent learning, while being academically supported by teacher centered instruction when necessary and relevant.
My goal is to create a transparent school space that also reflects the voices of the community - families and students. Yes, I have a vision, but ultimately this school is not for me, it is for the students. Not only is it my desire to have this school rooted in a strong foundation but it is equally important to allow room for conversation in how the space is created and in how programming continues to develop and grow. If you are in search of something outside the schooling "norm" and this sounds like something your child may benefit from I hope you reach out! I can't wait to get this community expanding!
Click the apple to to learn more about the programs available.
