About Us

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Ancaster Forest & Nature School is a  forest and nature-based preschool catering to children ages 18 months to 5 years in Ancaster, Ontario. We are licensed with the Ministry of Education.

Scheduled to open in the summer of 2024, our programs offer a distinctive and personalized early learning experience, immersing children in nature to foster deep and meaningful connections across all developmental domains.

Designed by a team of seasoned professionals with a combined experience of over 150 years, our programs embody the philosophy that children are inherently competent, capable, curious, and abundantly rich in potential. Operating on the fundamental belief that effective learning occurs through exploration, engagement, and social interaction, our forest and nature-based school aims to create an environment where children thrive.

Nestled within the expansive beauty of Mount Mary Retreat Centre at 437 Wilson St. East, Ancaster, our programs unfold amidst nearly 100 acres of robust Carolinian forest. Here, children are afforded the opportunity to nurture their natural desire for knowledge and understanding through rich play experiences and unhurried exploration of their natural world.

Dedicated to providing an enriching educational experience, Ancaster Forest & Nature School creates an environment that cultivates a sense of belonging, well-being, engagement, and expression. Within this setting, children enjoy the autonomy to make choices that contribute to the development of their unique interests and goals, with nature serving as the fundamental and inspiring foundation for their learning experiences. 

At Ancaster Forest & Nature School, we maintain small class sizes to elevate the learning experience for each child. By keeping class sizes small, we create an environment that fosters individualized attention, meaningful connections, and tailored support. This intentional approach allows our dedicated educators to engage more closely with each child, understand their unique learning styles, and address their specific needs. 

Through this personalized setting, we aim to cultivate a rich and immersive educational experience, promoting active participation, collaborative learning, and a strong sense of community within our forest and nature-based school.