Mission – Education rooted in nature to inspire in our students a deeper connection to the community around them.
Vision – Every child is given the opportunity to learn about their world through daily access to extended time in nature. Quality educators facilitate an emergent curriculum that reflects the needs of the whole child and meets the demands of the world in which we live.
How Does Learning Happen at Greenbelt Academy?
Our vision is that every child is given the opportunity to learn about their world through daily access to extended time in nature. Quality educators facilitate an emergent curriculum that reflects the needs of the whole child and meets the demands of the world in which we live.
At Greenbelt Academy we strive to meet our vision through hands-on experiential learning opportunities that follow the interests of the child, by allowing the curriculum to be fluid and built through observation and real life happenings. Teacher-led workshops and small group demonstrations are a mix of Ontario Curriculum and Forest School pedagogy which offer new skills and address the needs of the whole child and realities of their community. We incorporate opportunities for risky play while in the forest and onsite, and offer multiple unstructured play sessions throughout the day. Our pedagogy places importance on developing emotional intelligence and we incorporate these skills into our lesson plans and responsive interactions with students. Through nature immersion, children develop environmental literacy which encourages them to grow to be humans who are authentically connected to the world around them and are more likely to care for and advocate for the future of our planet and their communities. Through our program, your child will be prepared with a solid foundation to support them down whatever path their education takes them.
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Interview with CHCH News.
Our Latest News & Resources!
Community Day – Gardener
We welcomed Spring with a gardening extravaganza! Marilyn from the Grimsby Garden Club showed us the ropes, we explored gardening and interacted with various plants, created garden art, and even planted in our new cedar boxes. A perfect day to welcome Spring - thanks Marilyn!
World Discovery Day – Ireland
We had a blast exploring Ireland! We discovered its vibrant culture, music, and wildlife, and indulged in delicious traditional foods. Plus, we got to make Irish flags and Celtic Knot art, build an Irish castle, and dance to the Irish Jig. Unforgettable day!
What We’re Listening To: Play it Forward
"Play it Forward" is an educational podcast hosted by playground designer Lukas Ritson, exploring the importance of play and taking risks in Early Childhood. The podcast features interviews with leading early education experts and play advocates, offering practical takeaways for parents and educators to support children's development.
What We’re Reading: Last Child in the Woods
"Last Child in the Woods" by Richard Louv discusses the disconnect between children and nature, and offers solutions through interviews with parents, scientists, and environmentalists. Louv shows how parents can help their children experience the natural world, leading to greater family connectedness and joy.
ElevateHER – Women In Wellness
Greenbelt Academy is proud to celebrate International Women's Day by attending this event to support and empower some incredible, hard-working women within our community.
What Do You Really Know about Spring?
Are you ready for spring? Think again! You might be celebrating on the wrong day! The equinox is NOT the official start of spring. Plus, can you REALLY balance an egg on the equinox? And you won't believe what we discovered about sunrise and sunset on this magical day. What do you really know about Spring?
