Restore balance. Most kids have technology, school and extracurricular activities covered. It’s time to add a pinch of adventure, a sprinkle of sunshine and a big handful of outdoor play.” ~ Penny Whitehouse
Our Philosophy
Through embracing the following philosophical principles, The Wild Explorers Nature School aims to create a nurturing and inspiring environment where children can thrive, develop a deep connection to nature, and become responsible and compassionate citizens of the world. Where they can feel empowered in their learning and confident in their abilities.
1.Holistic Education
Social-Emotional Development: Support tamariki to learn healthy ways to express emotions, resolve conflicts, and interact with others.
Experiential Learning: Prioritize hands-on experiences and exploration over traditional classroom settings.
Interdisciplinary Approach: Integrate subjects like science, math, literacy arts, and social studies through a nature-based lens
Empowerment: Offer opportunities for risk taking
2. Respect for Nature
Environmental Stewardship: Foster a deep appreciation for the natural world and a sense of responsibility for its preservation.
Sustainability: Teach children about sustainable practices and the importance of conserving resources.
Maori Knowledge: Incorporate traditional ecological knowledge and wisdom from local Maori culture
3. Child-Centered Learning
Individualized Approach: Recognize and respect each child's unique learning style and pace.
Play-Based Learning: Encourage free play and exploration as essential components of child development.
Inquiry-Based Learning: Guide children to ask questions, investigate, and discover answers through their own experiences and interests
4. Community
Community Engagement: Connect with the local community and foster a sense of belonging and responsibility to others
About Us
Kia Ora, Bonjour, Salut, Talofa Lava and Hello everyone. My name is Stacey and I, along with my husband Sam, are the founders of Wild Explorers Nature School.
I am a Primary Trained teacher with over 15years experience in Education, from Primary to ECE and everything else in between and Sam has extensive experience in coaching young children through to adults in Sports and recreation.
I have had a passion for education since I was young, aspiring to be a teacher from as young as 4years old. When I grew up I trained to be a Primary teacher, and although I thought I had achieved my dream, I was still unsettled. I could feel that there was a disconnect between what was being taught in the classrooms and what our children needed. I felt they needed more balance, more real-world learning.
Being the mum of 2 boys I had my reservations about sending them to mainstream school when the time came. It wasn’t until I started Managing and teaching at a Forest Philosophy ELC that it all started making sense to me…… they just needed to be outside! I then dived deep into educating myself around the Forest Philosophy and knew that this was the way forward for our sons and others. A way of providing a space where children can have a balance between mainstream school and outdoor education.
My husband and I were determined to continue our sons education within the Forest Philosophy and that was when Wild Explorers Nature School was born.
Join us on taking the path less travelled. The path that leads through grassy fields and muddy waters. The path where our children become confident, resilient, empathetic, and curious learners in a world they want to learn about.
Contact Us
Want to get in touch? We’re here to help and happy to answer any questions.
Whether you are interested in enrolling your child or learning more about our school and philosophy or simply want to share your feedback, please feel free to contact us.