Already successfully operating an early childhood program, the volunteer board is now awaiting confirmation from the NSW Education Standard Authority (NESA) to confirm its application for the school. 

While the primary school will meet NSW education standards and will teach to the Australian curriculum, the board says students will be taught within a framework of exploration, innovation and having fun on the learning journey.

The board applied for permission to establish an independent primary school in March and recently hosted an on-site inspection with NESA at its proposed site at Lake Innes Community Centre. 

The Nature School’s decision to press ahead to establish a primary school is built on the success of the early years program and a desire to offer families an outdoors-based education.

Its plan is to open a primary school in term 1 2018 for kindergarten through to year 2. The school will then expand by progressively adding school years through to year 6. 

The vision of the primary school is to create a community where children learn and shine through authentic experiences in nature, becoming active global citizens for a sustainable future, said one of the co-founders Sybil Juzwiak Doyle. 

“Parents are looking for the kind of model we are offering,” Ms Juzwiak Doyle said. 

“Experiential learning includes building confidence, teaching creative skills, problem solving, respecting nature, understanding the environment and being socially responsible. 

The board is calling for volunteers to come forward and assist in various capacities in relation to establishing The Nature School Primary.

As a not-for-profit organisation – The Nature School is now a registered charity – any financial support or assistance is welcome.

The early years program will recommence in Term 3 and it still has places available for children 3+ years old.

A prospectus with more information about the primary school will be available within the next week on the The Nature Schools website. 

For more information about the current program and the proposed school you can email info@thenatureschool.org.au or visit the website.