"A child, more than anyone else, is a spontaneous observer of nature."

As parents ourselves, we recognize the significance of understanding the roots of our outstanding forest and nature-based programs as the decisions you make regarding your child's early learning experiences can shape their development for a lifetime. But, no pressure! :)  Allow us to share a bit of our history and why we firmly believe that choosing Ancaster Forest & Nature School is the absolute best decision for your child, your family, and our community.

Our connection with nature traces back to our childhoods, where the freedom of outdoor exploration fueled our love for the great outdoors. When our children were born, we wanted them to have the opportunity to develop their own connection with nature and share our passion for the outdoors. Almost a year later, we were so fortunate to find ourselves here, in beautiful Ancaster, Ontario. 

Over the past three years, we have watched our children flourish as they explore forests, creeks, insects, animals and their habitats. We have seen the positive impact of living in an environment so alive with nature and the impact it has on young, developing minds. When it came time to decide where our children would spend their preschool years, we knew that we could offer a more impactful experience than what was available. As a Doctor of Education and Professor of Early Childhood Education, I knew the benefits of nature-based education programs and felt compelled to provide our children along with other children in our community with an unparalleled early learning experience. 

In 2021, we opened Nurture Through Nature Forest School which began as a small, unlicensed preschool. With such wonderful feedback from the community, our program grew to what will soon be Ancaster Forest and Nature School. Located within the pristine grounds of Mount Mary Retreat Centre, we are surrounded by the Dundas Valley and its mature trees, established wildlife and over 1200 acres of lush and expansive forest.

Ancaster Forest & Nature School is the culmination of our lifelong passion for both nature and early childhood education. Our programs are designed to provide a unique and meaningful early childhood experience for the children and families in our community, proudly establishing us as Hamilton's Forest School.

We are so grateful to be a part of your child’s journey to discovering their own love of nature while nurturing their innate desire to learn.

-Dr. Drew Hubert