The Orchard Approach
Three ideas shape how children learn at Orchard: specialty teachers, a student-centered classroom, and learning connected to nature.
Specialty Teachers
In grades 1 to 6, small classes in math, humanities and science are each taught by a specialist.
Single-subject teachers bring real depth to their field. Students also build relationships with a family of teachers who follow their progress through the grades.
Arts teachers lead art, drama and circus arts. Kindergartners spend most of the day with one dedicated teacher, plus time with the arts teachers.
Student-Centered
A progressive approach: children take an active part in their own education.
Class discussion, open dialogue and hands-on work come first. We honor each child's curiosity, interests and needs.
Students design projects around their passions and lead class activities, which deepens their understanding. They learn to solve problems as a group.
Cooperative work and personal achievement matter more than competition, so grades and tests aren't part of the curriculum. Homework is limited, leaving time for activities outside school.
Nature-Based
Teachers take lessons outside whenever they can, so children learn in and from nature.
- In science, students might spend weeks tracking birds at feeders they built in a carpentry elective.
- In math, they might write word problems by counting the legs, heads and tails of the farm animals.
- In language arts, they might do centering yoga under the trees, or write poems about places on campus.
We know children are happier when they build a real relationship with the Earth, and when they can learn while moving their bodies.