Connecting kids, nature, and education.
A unique opportunity for your child to learn in – and from – nature.
Our immersive education model encourages children to get to know the world around them.
We offer a unique program based on the Forest School movement that includes a variety of programs, including Nature School for Grades 1-4 and Kindergarten, camps, and a variety of other classes and programs, all of which are designed to foster creativity, curiosity and teamwork through exploration.
Research shows that nature-specific outdoor learning can result in measurable socio-emotional, academic and well-being benefits. Our mission is to connect children (and their families) with these benefits while instilling an appreciation for the natural world and lifelong love of the great outdoors.
Featured Offerings / Now Registering
2023 / 2024
Before & After School Care
Our before and after care program is designed to provide a safe, nurturant and engaging environment for children to explore and connect with the natural world.
Winter 2024
Winter Holiday Camp
Our camps provide a great opportunity to get your children outdoors and into nature! We encourage exploring, asking questions and playing with friends.
2023 / 2024
Nature School (school aged)
Designed for students aged 6-10 years old, this program is for those looking for an engaging outdoor learning experience 1 or 2 days per week!
Our students visit the same areas daily so that they can see how nature changes throughout the seasons. Learn more.
Toronto Nature School is situated in the heart of the Beaches neighbourhood in Toronto. Learn more about our location.
A Bit About Us
Toronto Nature School was founded in 2020 by Julia Donnelly O’Neill, a certified teacher with a specialization in outdoor learning and play.
We began with one small kindergarten class and a mission to connect children (and their families) with all the benefits of outdoor education – and have since grown into a thriving alternative education option with extensive programming options, staffed by a team of wonderful, enthusiastic teachers.
When you come to nature school you are learning.
“My son was engaged, excited about what he was learning, and thrived in the outdoor setting. He came home eager to share stories about his adventures and couldn’t wait to go back the next day! It’s everything we could hope for in a school!”
“I like finding things. Today I found ants and caterpillars and I counted them. And, I found a leaf, like as big as my face!”
PHOTO: Erin Horrocks-Pope, Beach Beat Blog
PHOTO: Erin Horrocks-Pope, Beach Beat Blog
What Nature School families are saying…
“Register now before you lose the chance!”
“Our child had a wonderful time exploring, learning about nature, doing science experiments on the beach, writing, creating, running obstacle courses, and more. During our evening family walks he kept surprising us with the new information he’d learned during the day at Nature School. Ms. Julia was able to instill a love of learning and nature all while being incredibly professional, engaging, and caring.”
