Hamilton Pool Nature Academy

Embark on an extraordinary journey at Hamilton Pool Nature Academy,

Where young learners aged 3 to 10 years old discover the profound connection between education and nature.

Our doors are open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, to part time and full time students. We provide a nurturing environment where we use a holistic approach to foster lifelong learners who cherish nature's wonders, embrace creativity, independence, and critical thinking through a student-led curriculum and engaging hands-on STEM exploration.

Core Values:

Deep Connection with Nature and Environmental Stewardship:

We place a strong emphasis on fostering a deep connection with the natural world. Immersing young learners in nature inspires a lifelong appreciation for the environment and its wonders. Through engaging activities like farming, building, and playing, children learn about the cycles of nature, the interconnectedness of all living things, and the importance of respecting and caring for the planet.

Holistic Education and Well-being:

Our core values include promoting a holistic approach to education that nurtures well-rounded individuals. We strive to support the well-being of the mind, body, and spirit. Our transformative curriculum integrates nature-based activities, play-based learning, and hands-on experiences.

Empowering Student Autonomy and Creativity:

We value student-led learning and personal sovereignty, empowering children to embrace their boundless potential. Collaborative problem-solving, goal-setting, and project-based learning foster critical thinking, independence, and creativity.

Experiential Learning at Our 65-acre Farm:

At Hamilton Pool Nature Academy, our 65-acre farm, complete with farm animals, provides a rich backdrop for experiential learning. Children come together to immerse themselves in a world of exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning. They build their own raised garden beds, tend crops, and delight in the art of cooking. Our nature-focused activities include saving seeds, crafting habitats for bees, and constructing birdhouses. Students acquire practical outdoor skills such as animal tracking, natural navigation, fire building, shelter construction, wood carving, knife safety, and working with natural fibers to make cordage and basketry. Through these activities, they learn the functions of plants in dye and medicinal gardens, as well as native and traditional food sources.

Fostering a Deep Connection with Nature:

Central to our philosophy is fostering a deep connection with the natural world. Through seasonal garden activities, games, crafts, stories, and songs, children learn about the cycles of nature and develop a sense of wonder and appreciation for their surroundings. They gain proficiency in using hand tools and learn proper farm etiquette.

Nurturing Responsible and Compassionate Individuals:

Weekly farm chores provide opportunities for responsibility and active participation. Nature-based activities like making flower presses, weaving nature looms, and observing insects through magnifiers enrich their understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things.

A Vibrant Community of Young Explorers:

Hamilton Pool Nature Academy is a place where children from different age groups collaborate, learn from one another, and embark on discovery walks throughout the day. It's a vibrant community where the joy of learning and the wonders of nature come together to inspire and nurture young minds.

Enroll Your Child Today:

We are thrilled to welcome students Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, offering a dynamic curriculum that blends core subjects with hands-on experiences in farming, building, and discovering the wonders of the natural world. Our aftercare program extends until 5 pm, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment beyond regular school hours. Join us on this exciting journey of growth, discovery, and endless possibilities! Shape a bright future for your child, where education and nature intertwine to inspire a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

Educators:

MJ Wells

Head of School
Guiding student led curriculum and academics

Lucas

Guiding permaculture classes

Tammy Kattner

Director of Educational Development
Guiding herbalism classes

Allison

Guiding cooking, baking, and pickling classes

Sam

Guiding botany and building classes

HamiltonPoolNatureAcademy@gmail.com

Phone: 512-429-3629