About EDS Murray Nature School
EDS Murray Nature School is a pioneer experiential education program in the CSRA. Our hybrid model of student-led, inquiry-centered learning in nature paired with a careful balance of research-based language and emergent literacy and foundational math curriculum, produces an environment of learning where children grow their social and emotional awareness, gross and fine motor skills, sense of place and self, and confidence in core academics, all in the greatest classroom ever invented – the forest.
Our Forest School Teacher-certified faculty (www.forestteacher.org) are trained to create unique experiences in nature for both PreK and Kindergarten. The student’s natural curiosity leads them to discover and investigate scientific concepts like habitats, ecosystems, erosion, decomposition, amphibian and insect life cycles, seasonal changes, bird songs, and migration, through their natural explorative play. These discoveries are then reinforced through an emergent curriculum where the teachers come alongside to build on their initial learning through further discovery, journaling, and games.
The Nature School Campus
An 8.5-acre forest grove adjoining our larger 30-acre Flowing Wells Campus, the nature school campus offers a beautiful space for students to explore, wonder, study, and play. Located near the Richmond and Columbia County line and only 15 minutes to downtown Augusta, this campus is right in the heart of our area’s greatest growth, and yet feels quiet and remote.
Our Lead Teachers
Our Curriculum
In our third year of operation, we offer two classes of Nature School – one for Prekindergarten and the other for Kindergarten students. Their daily experience is guided by at least two full-time faculty members for each class, all trained in Wilderness First Aid, amongst other certifications. The curriculum closely follows the curriculum in our PK and Kindergarten program on our Walton Way Campus to ensure that students will be well equipped to enter Kindergarten or First Grade classrooms after graduating from our Nature School.
By making the world their classroom, participating in child-directed activities, and utilizing natural boundaries, students will not only display academic strides, but also strengthen their fine and gross motor skills.
We hold our Nature School students to the same standards of rigor and achievement as our Walton Way Campus students and know they will find the same levels of success in Kindergarten and beyond.
Parent Testimonials
