Ancaster Forest & Nature School: A First Grade Holistic Learning Experience

At Ancaster Forest & Nature School, our Grade 1 program builds upon the foundation set in our nature-based kindergarten, continuing to nurture the holistic development of each child. Our commitment to providing a unique learning experience extends into this next stage of education, where students are given the opportunity to explore and grow both academically and personally through immersive, hands-on activities that connect them to the natural world.

A Nature-Based Learning Environment

Much like our kindergarten program, the Grade 1 curriculum is designed to promote a strong connection to nature. Research shows that spending time outdoors enhances cognitive abilities, reduces stress, and improves concentration. In our outdoor classrooms, students engage in active exploration and physical play that help to develop motor skills, resilience, and critical thinking. Whether it's learning in the forest, engaging in garden projects, or exploring the wonders of the natural world, our program encourages curiosity and creativity while fostering a sense of environmental stewardship.

Small Class Sizes for Personalized Learning

With a maximum class size of 12 students, our Grade 1 program ensures a focused and individualized learning environment. We recognize the importance of nurturing each child’s unique strengths and needs, which is why our educators prioritize building strong, meaningful relationships with each child. This personalized attention supports their academic growth, social development, and emotional well-being.

Academic Growth in a Hands-On Setting

Our Grade 1 program is designed to support the development of foundational academic skills in a dynamic and engaging way. Teachers, who are Ontario Certified, incorporate elements from the Ministry of Education's The Kindergarten Program (2016), ensuring that our students are prepared for future academic success. Through experiential learning, children engage in activities like baking, gardening, and forest exploration, which strengthen their problem-solving abilities, language skills, and scientific understanding. These experiences help children not only learn important academic concepts but also develop practical life skills and a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom.

French Fundamentals Program

In our Grade 1 French Fundamentals program, children continue their journey in discovering the French language. Through songs, stories, and play—set in our beautiful outdoor environment—students begin to develop language skills in an immersive and enjoyable way. Under the guidance of our expert educators, children lay the foundation for a lifelong love of the French language, all while enhancing their social and cognitive development.

Family-Style Dining for Holistic Growth

At Ancaster Forest & Nature School, we understand the importance of nourishment in a child's development. All snacks and meals served in our Grade 1 program are vegetarian, and the family-style dining experience helps children develop valuable life skills, such as sharing, cooperation, and mindfulness around food. This holistic approach to mealtime complements our broader educational philosophy of fostering growth in every aspect of a child's life.

A Well-Rounded Approach to Learning

Our Grade 1 program is designed to be a balanced, enriching experience that integrates academics with outdoor exploration, creative activities, and personal development. We believe that by providing a nurturing, nature-based environment, we inspire children to become confident, curious, and compassionate individuals ready to face the world with resilience and creativity. 

At Ancaster Forest & Nature School, learning is an adventure that connects children to the world around them while fostering a love for learning that will last a lifetime.