At Gilbert Nature School, students spend the majority of their morning session engaged in outdoor free play-- an approach backed heavily by child development research. Children are hardwired for learning-- we offer their bodies and minds the freedom they need to fully develop to their full potential. Each afternoon, we head inside to our
At Gilbert Nature School, students spend the majority of their morning session engaged in outdoor free play-- an approach backed heavily by child development research. Children are hardwired for learning-- we offer their bodies and minds the freedom they need to fully develop to their full potential. Each afternoon, we head inside to our beautifully appointed Montessori classrooms for academic work.
The combination of fresh air, freedom of movement, and endless opportunities to learn through trial and error each morning allows our students to truly thrive-- just as nature intended. When it's time to sit down and focus on academics, our students are fully engaged and ready to apply themselves.
At Gilbert Nature School, we believe that genuine education encompasses all facets of life. We "Follow The Child" as we draw inspiration in our planning from student interest, our own creative passions, and the natural environment. Our unique blend of Montessori, Forest School, and Wilderness Awareness School educational models means that
At Gilbert Nature School, we believe that genuine education encompasses all facets of life. We "Follow The Child" as we draw inspiration in our planning from student interest, our own creative passions, and the natural environment. Our unique blend of Montessori, Forest School, and Wilderness Awareness School educational models means that our educators have the freedom to truly follow our student's interests.
In addition to our carefully crafted Montessori classrooms, we provide all of our students with access to music education (with a violin pedagogy program coming in 2025!), a professional-grade pottery studio, organic gardens, farm animals, learning survival skills and practicing wildlife watching, yoga and meditation lessons, and an incredible Loose Parts Playground and Mud Kitchen.
+We are a 100% Screen Free School
+We ask our families to be Screen Free at home
+We allow children to follow their own interests
+When our students are focused, we do not interrupt them
+We partner with Let Grow and utilize the Let Grow Experience curriculum
+We serve organic snacks and Reverse Osmosis water
+We choose non-toxic cleaning supplies for our entire school
At Gilbert Nature School, our mission is to provide top-notch Montessori place-based outdoor education experiences that promote physical activity, mental wellness, academic growth, and an appreciation for nature. We believe that learning in the great outdoors can be a powerful force for good, and we want to share that with as many people as possible.
Founded in 2023 by Clarissa Pollack, a passionate Montessori educator and nature enthusiast, Gilbert Nature School started as a small operation with a big dream. She believes that every child should have the opportunity to experience the beauty and excitement of learning with nature.
We offer a wide range of services, including our flagship Nature School program, School Holiday nature immersion camps, Summer Camps, and special seasonal events for families, all inspired by the Montessori Method and our passion for place-based learning. Our team of experienced educators is passionate about what we do and are committed t
We offer a wide range of services, including our flagship Nature School program, School Holiday nature immersion camps, Summer Camps, and special seasonal events for families, all inspired by the Montessori Method and our passion for place-based learning. Our team of experienced educators is passionate about what we do and are committed to ensuring that every adventure with Gilbert Nature School is inspiring and enriching.
At Gilbert Nature School, children are encouraged to stretch their minds and bodies to reach their fullest potential.
Four out of five children say they feel more confident in themselves after spending time participating in outdoor activities, according to new University College London research.
Descriptive language, storytelling, and community problem solving all bubble up from immersive nature experiences in an outdoor education based Montessori school.
This study shares that children use five times more words when playing outdoors compared to indoors !
Outdoor education enhances educational outcomes by improving children’s academic performance, focus, behavior and love of learning at school.
Our program is founded on the academic model created by Dr. Maria Montessori and blends child-led learning, modern child development research, and the Wilderness Awareness School approach to nature education mentorship. Our philosophy is based on respect-- respect for others, respect for the environment, and respect for self. We respect each child’s Inner Teacher and trust that, when left to their own inner guidance, each child's educational path is both unique and whole.
We believe that children grow and thrive when allowed and encouraged to follow their instincts and take their own calculated risks, and we respect their judgment. In the spirit of exploration, we encourage the children to fully experience their own initiative and learn what they may.
Participants will gain educational experiences through place-based exploration, creative nature-based play, observation, guided academic studies, and fun! Children will practice innovative problem solving, sharpen their curiosity, and develop as helpful members of their community. As we discover our local flora and fauna together, our hope is that out students deepen their connection to the natural world as they blossom into lifelong learners.
Your contribution allows us to provide equitable access to nature and place based Montessori education for more children in our community.
100% Screen-Free education. Hands on project-based Montessori-inspired learning in the fresh air with highly qualified educators. Learning as nature intended!