Approaches
Reggio & Scandinavian Approach
Role of the Child:
In The Native School, children are seen as active participants in their own learning. They are encouraged to explore their environment, ask questions, and engage in self-led discovery. Their interests and inquiries drive the curriculum, allowing them to take ownership of their educational journey. This approach fosters a deep sense of curiosity, independence, and self-confidence, as children are given the freedom to express themselves in various ways, often through nature-based activities.
Role of the Teacher:
Teachers at The Native School act as facilitators and guides, providing support, structure, and inspiration as children explore their environment. They observe and listen to the children, using their interests as the foundation for creating meaningful learning experiences. Teachers also document the children’s progress, support their emotional and social growth, and help them develop critical thinking skills. They are partners in the learning process, encouraging exploration while ensuring safety and growth.
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Relationships:
Strong, trusting relationships are at the heart of The Native School's approach. Teachers build close, respectful bonds with children, families, and colleagues, fostering a sense of community. The emphasis on collaboration extends to how children interact with one another, learning through play, shared experiences, and problem-solving together. Families are integral to the learning process, with open communication channels that support a partnership in the child’s educational journey.
The Environment:
The environment at The Native School is seen as the "third teacher," inspired by Reggio and Scandinavian models. The natural world plays a central role in this approach, with children spending time outdoors in parks, lagoons, and forests, allowing them to connect with nature in a hands-on, meaningful way. The learning spaces are designed to be open, flexible, and full of provocations that invite exploration, creativity, and learning. The environment reflects the school’s ethos of self-directed, place-based education.
Documentation:
Documentation at The Native School is used as a tool for reflection, both for the children and teachers. Teachers document the children's learning process through written observations, photographs, and children's work. This documentation serves to track progress, communicate with families, and inspire future learning. It also helps make visible the children’s thinking, providing a way for them to revisit and reflect on their learning experiences.
Healthy Risk:
The Native School embraces the concept of healthy risk, which is central to both the Reggio and Scandinavian approaches. Children are encouraged to take risks in a safe and supportive environment, whether through physical challenges, emotional exploration, or problem-solving. This allows them to develop resilience, confidence, and critical thinking skills. Teachers support children in managing these risks, ensuring safety while promoting growth through challenges that foster independence and self-reliance.
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In summary, The Native School’s approach draws heavily from the Reggio Emilia and Scandinavian forest school models, emphasizing the role of the child as an active learner, the teacher as a facilitator, and the environment as a dynamic, interactive space for discovery. This philosophy creates a rich, holistic learning experience for every child.