Nature Learning
“Earth and sky, woods and fields, lakes and rivers, the mountain and the sea, are excellent schoolmasters, and teach some of us more than we can ever learn from books.”
John Lubbock
Nature schools such as forest and beach schools are learning institutions in which children are encouraged to explore the natural environment with its constantly changing appearance and abundance of natural learning opportunities.
As well as studying the impact of plastic pollution and the beauty of coastal flora and fauna, the children will learn about tidal forecasts, lunar cycles, ecology and geology. They will make beach sculptures, practice their letter formation in the sand, measure length, capacity, weight and volume using natural materials. They can see food chains in action, learn how to paint watercolour landscapes using sea water on their brushes and feel inspired to write beautiful poetry. The list is endless! They get fresh air, physical exercise, make friends and work together.
Learning through play and exploration is proven to be the most effective way in which children learn, regardless of their age.
At Footsteps we spend two full days per month learning through nature, carrying out focused, curriculum-related learning activities as well as having lots of time to play and explore.
David Sobel, Beyond Ecophobia
Testimonials & Awards
See what they had to say:
"Incredible school! We moved with our son from London to Cayman just over 2 1/2 years ago and the transition was seamless with truly dedicated teachers that go the extra mile on a daily basis. Our son was in an Independent School in London and our initial fear was that the standard of teaching would be lower in Cayman, but Footsteps surpassed our expectations on so many levels. Our son has excelled not just in his academic achievements, but his interest in learning and confidence as a well rounded person. His next academic adventure is boarding school and I am very happy with his readiness for this transition following his time at Footsteps. I know that he and we, will miss Footsteps immensely."
"Footsteps school is like no other school on the island. The children, parents and teachers have built a close-knit family like atmosphere. My child has moved around and has been to three schools off and on island, but this one fits like the missing puzzle piece. The small class sizes make it much easier for children to build a bond with their peers and teachers, as well as get the assistance they may need. The nature learning days are so much fun, loaded with hands on experiences, (BONUS: without devices!!) and these days will be glorious childhood memories that will follow my child through life. There truly is no other school in Cayman that can provide my child with these experiences!"
“Footsteps School is strong academically, but also has a broad, exciting and vibrant curriculum - full of science, sport, drama, language and much more. I appreciate the consistent feedback and warmth I get from the teachers.”
“My children love going to Footsteps School and feel safe and happy there. I would not hesitate to recommend it to any other parent.”
"Fantastic school! We have recently moved from the UK to Grand Cayman our biggest worry was our children moving schools. Footsteps have not only made the process very easy but we feel so lucky that our children will now have such a wonderful school life. Footsteps is an incredibly nurturing environment where staff and pupils are all so friendly and welcoming. The class sizes are small and it has made a huge impact on our children’s academic learning - they absolutely love going to school everyday! We have been really impressed by the nature learning days, sports curriculum as well as the variety of learning offered in the school’s curriculum- our son has been particularly enjoying architecture this term! I wouldn’t hesitate recommending this wonderful school to anyone!"
