Tiny Forest Academy

Benefits of this type of experiential learning field trip:

• Teachers get to observe their students and their natural engagement in a very different learning environment. It is not uncommon for students who struggle in a classroom setting to blossom, engage, and lead amongst their peers in our setting. 

• It provides an opportunity for their classroom teacher to engage with their students in a new way, watching new friendships and personalities emerge, in a very holistic environment. 

• We encourage all students attending our space to try new things, take (scaled) risks, and ask lots of questions. 

• It is a great way for Classroom Teachers to gain some data and observations on the soft (and hard!) skills of their students. 

It is important to note that we do not plan teacher-directed activities or skills, or plan for curriculum links and expectations. We dynamically assess the group upon arrival and help facilitate child-led free play within our space and within the context of that specific group. Some groups are very active and hands-on with the natural spaces, others engage in softer ways. We base our unfolding of the program on the group and their needs. 

If this is something that sounds like a great opportunity for your class, please reach out to owner, Whitney, at whitney@tinyforestacademy.ca

Thank you for considering a Field Trip at Tiny Forest Academy!

Some important details to know:

• We run Field Trips at our site on Fridays ONLY, between 11:45am - 2:45pm.

• We accept ONE class at a time (up to 25 students plus staff) This allows for a meaningful experience for your class, in a smaller group, while not disrupting our other programs that also take place on Fridays.

• We accept Field Trips for any grade, Kindergarten- Grade 8. 

• The cost for our field trips are a flat rate of $500.00 per day/visit.  
  

  What to expect during a Field Trip at Tiny Forest Academy:

• The bus will drop off the group at the entrance to the property where 2 TFA Mentors will meet you and walk your group through the forest trail. 

• Upon arrival at our main campsite, Pine Grove, the students will have a sheltered space to put their backpacks, and gather around our fire circle for a welcome and brief meeting about some safety agreements. 

• Students are then free to have a snack, or explore the area. Classroom and TFA Educators circulate, facilitating and nurturing the natural curiosities the children express. We ask deep level questions and provide some provocations and tools dependent on weather and the season. 

• Outdoor composting washrooms are available for students to use (2). An indoor washroom available for staff. 

• A large warming tent can be used for some reprieve from the cold or weather if needed, but students and staff are expected to come dressed and prepared for any and all weather. 

• After some free-play time, the group will go for a walk into another play space in our 78 acres of forest.

• They end their time gathered back around the fire circle, discussing what curiosities they explored, and giving gratitude to the land. 

• The bus then picks them up right at the Main Camp, making for a quick and easy departure.