A K - 6 Alternative Program in Foothills School Division

Learning outside in nature and with our community is the way we feel education is meant to be.  Students experience and connect with the Alberta Curriculum through hands on, relevant, and rigorous learning experiences that motivate them to wonder, explore, question, care, and learn.

Nature Based Learning is founded upon 4 essential pillars.

1. Place Based Learning
2. Experiential Education
3. First Peoples Principles of Learning
4. Outdoor Education

View more about the 4 essential pillars here.

Taking learning outside and off school grounds allows for a natural flow to learning to take place. Take a moment to see what a day in Nature Based Learning looks like or find out what is happening right now in Nature Based Learning, check out our Instagram feed, @fsdnaturebasedlearning

WHY NATURE BASED LEARNING?

Nature Based Learning is a powerful way to learn. Instead of making abstract connections from a textbook, students are immersed in the academic content as it unfolds before them in their own community. There is a beautiful flow that happens when learning in the outdoors. Students feel a sense of calm as they learn, and this leads to a more supportive learning environment.

STUDENTS ENROLLED IN THIS PROGRAM:

• Experience increased motivation, engagement, and success with learning.
• Develop deep connections to nature and the environment.
• Experience increased academic achievement.
• Experience learning that is meaningful and connected to the real world.
• Develop skills to overcome physical, emotional, and academic challenges.
• Become well rounded students who have a strong sense of community.
• Develop leadership skills to benefit their communities now and in the future.

MEET THE TEAM!

An educational program is nothing without passionate, positive, and engaged teachers and leaders. Learn more about the people behind Nature Based Learning by clicking here.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, we honour and acknowledge that we live, learn, work, play, and grow on the traditional Treaty 7 territory of the Blackfoot confederacy: Siksika, Kainai, Piikani as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina nations.  We also acknowledge that this territory is home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3.  We acknowledge all Nations, Indigenous and non, who help us steward this land and honour, protect, and celebrate this beautiful territory. We acknowledge the devastating impacts colonialism has had on the First Peoples. We endeavor to disrupt the legacy of colonialism by walking the path of reconciliation and relationship with the people of Treaty 7 and Metis Region 3.

Contact
403-938-4449