What does Saplings Nature School do differently or uniquely well?

By supporting our students’ fundamental need to explore, discover, share, and create in both the indoor classroom as well as in the broader, natural community that surrounds us, Saplings’ students learn to take important risks, develop empathy, and develop a rich and meaningful relationship with the earth. By fostering an intimate daily relationship with the natural world, suffused with observations and questions, our classrooms are saturated with emergent moments of inquiry, sensory entanglements, spontaneous learning opportunities, provocative conversations, and meaningful connections. These connections to self, others, and place foster students’ lifelong understanding of the need for sustainable practices, and our responsibilities related to the earth’s preservation. We aim to ensure that every student, as is their right, will experience the natural world as part of their education now and into the future.

What tradeoffs has Saplings Nature School made to serve families in this way?

At Saplings, our commitment to outdoor, play-based, and child-led learning means embracing tradeoffs. We intentionally de-emphasize standardized academics in favour of nurturing curiosity and developmental growth at each child’s pace. Technology use is limited, as we prioritize sensory-rich, nature-based experiences that foster ecological identity. We value adaptability over indoor structure, choosing year-round outdoor learning even in challenging weather. Our focus on relational teaching means we deprioritize rigid discipline in favour of emotional safety and self-regulation. These tradeoffs may not align with every family’s expectations, but they reflect our core belief: children thrive when they are connected to nature, to themselves, and to their community. By clearly naming what we prioritize—and what we intentionally let go of—we aim to build trust and transparency with families seeking meaningful, values-driven education.

What key junctures in Saplings Nature School's history have most shaped its present?

Saplings Nature School was born from a deep-rooted belief in the power of the natural world to inspire, ground, and teach children. A key influence has been founder Heather Fraser’s grandmother, Susan Fraser, whose work in Authentic Childhood brought the Reggio Emilia approach to Canadian classrooms. Her legacy shaped our values: listening to children, honouring their voices, and seeing them as capable citizens of their community. Another turning point was the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many programs indoors or online—but for us, it was a catalyst. We moved fully outdoors, embraced by the forest and shoreline, which reaffirmed our commitment to outdoor learning. These moments—one personal, one global—shaped our identity. Today, our practice is rooted in relational pedagogy, ecological identity, and child-led inquiry, deeply shaped by both ancestral wisdom and the challenges of our time.

What type of student is a good fit for Saplings Nature School?

A child who thrives at Saplings Nature School is curious, imaginative, and eager to explore the world through hands-on, play-based learning. Our ideal student is one who benefits from open-ended inquiry, time in nature, and meaningful relationships with peers and educators. They are supported by families who value connection to land, community, and a slower, more intentional rhythm of childhood. Children who do well here often enjoy movement, creative expression, and solving real-world problems collaboratively. Our approach especially suits learners who may feel constrained by traditional classrooms and who flourish in environments that honour their voice, autonomy, and emotional development. We welcome all children as capable citizens and encourage those who are ready to grow not just academically, but as whole people—deeply rooted, joyful, and resilient.

Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing Saplings Nature School?

We want every child to thrive, and that begins with a strong alignment between our values and a family’s expectations. Saplings may not be the best fit for children who are consistently uncomfortable being outdoors or who prefer highly structured, indoor environments. Our program is rooted in nature-based, play-driven learning that takes place outside in all weather. If a child finds this overwhelming or resists engaging in open-ended exploration, they may feel out of place. Similarly, families seeking a traditional academic model with worksheets, grades, or a set curriculum may find our emergent, child-led approach does not align with their goals. Our strength lies in fostering curiosity, resilience, and a deep connection to the land—and we’re best suited to families who share and support that vision.

To your knowledge, why do families choose Saplings Nature School over others?

Families choose Saplings because they’re looking for something different—something more intentional, connected, and aligned with their values. Many are seeking an alternative to conventional classrooms: a place where their child can grow at their own pace, build confidence, and feel a genuine sense of belonging. Our strong relationships—between educators, children, and families—are at the heart of what we do. Parents value the way we truly see their children and honour their individuality. They’re drawn to our commitment to outdoor, play-based learning and the way we foster curiosity, resilience, and ecological awareness. Families tell us they appreciate the space we create for joy, risk-taking, and meaningful connection to the land. Ultimately, they choose Saplings because they want their child to love learning—not just for school, but for life—and they trust us to guide that journey with care and intention.

How would you characterize Saplings Nature School's image amongst the public?

We believe Saplings is seen as a trusted, heart-led alternative to conventional schooling. Amongst the public—especially families seeking a values-aligned, nature-based education—we are known for our commitment to outdoor, child-led learning and our deep relationships with children and families. Our school is viewed as progressive, nurturing, and grounded in purpose. Many admire our focus on curiosity, creativity, and emotional growth, as well as our ability to help children develop confidence and resilience in the natural world. While some may initially view our approach as non-traditional, those who know us recognize the depth of thought and care in all we do. Word of mouth and community trust have been central to our growth and strong public image.

What aspect of Saplings Nature School is underappreciated?

One of the most underappreciated aspects of Saplings is the intentionality behind everything we do. While families often see the joy and freedom in our outdoor program, they may not fully see the deep thinking, collaboration, and care that goes into creating those experiences. Our educators spend countless hours observing children, planning provocations, and thoughtfully designing small group work that supports each child’s interests, needs, and development. We are constantly adjusting the environment—physically, emotionally, and pedagogically—to reflect what the children are telling us through their play. The fluidity and responsiveness of our approach can look effortless, but it’s grounded in rigorous professional reflection, dialogue, and trust in children as capable learners. This behind-the-scenes work is what makes our program feel so alive, and it’s a quiet strength that deserves more recognition.

What do families find surprising about Saplings Nature School?

Families are often surprised by just how much depth, structure, and intentional learning happens in what looks like “just play.” While our outdoor, child-led environment may appear unstructured at first glance, there is a deep level of planning, observation, and pedagogical intention behind every part of the day. Parents are also surprised by how resilient, capable, and self-directed their children become—from confidently navigating forest trails to engaging in meaningful peer collaboration and problem-solving. Another surprise is how strong the relationships are—not just between children and educators, but within the whole community. There’s a real sense of belonging, trust, and shared responsibility that grows over time. And finally, many families are amazed at how their child’s connection to nature transforms into empathy, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

How will Saplings Nature School change in the next 5 years?

Over the next five years, Saplings Nature School will continue to grow intentionally while staying rooted in our core philosophy of outdoor, child-led learning. We plan to expand our grade offerings to support children as they move through their elementary years, allowing families to stay connected to our community for longer. This includes welcoming more students and possibly opening new nature-based learning spaces that reflect our commitment to land stewardship and ecological identity. As we grow, we are also investing in deeper professional development for our educators and expanding our documentation and assessment practices to better tell the story of each child’s learning. While we may grow in size, we are committed to maintaining small group experiences, strong relationships, and the thoughtful, responsive environments that make Saplings unique. Our growth will always be guided by what’s best for children, families, and the land we learn on.

Saplings Nature School: A Detailed Report with Information, Reviews, and Insights

THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
Saplings Nature School

REPORT CONTENTS

School Overview

Reviews

Insider Reviews

Analysis

School overview

Pages in this report:

Grades
Preschool — Gr. 5
Gender
Coed
Class Size
Varies
Tuition
$9,060 to 9,950/year
Language of instruction
English
Associations
AMS, FISA, ISABC
Enrolment
40 day students
Curriculum
Progressive & Reggio Emilia
EBROCHURE
N/A

View address

Next open house
N/A
Application Deadline
Rolling (Day students)

The big picture on Saplings Nature School

We summarized the school ourselves

Saplings Nature School is an innovative educational institution that emphasizes nature-based learning and outdoor education. Founded on the belief that nature is a powerful teacher, the school nurtures in children a sense of wonder and a lifelong interest in the natural world. Classes are primarily conducted outdoors, allowing students to form a deep connection with the natural environment. This approach enables children to develop their adaptability and observational skills. The curriculum employs an inquiry-based and play-based learning model driven by student curiosity. This encourages children to develop theories, ask questions, and build critical thinking skills. Educators focus on documenting children's learning experiences and providing insights into their developmental journey, ensuring a personalized and responsive educational experience. The outdoor program promotes various skills, including problem-solving, creativity, and environmental stewardship. Students engage in activities such as using loose parts, creative play, shelter building, and practical skills like whittling wood and cooking on an open fire. Saplings Nature School aims to develop the whole child, addressing physical, social, cognitive, and emotional aspects of growth through nature-based experiences.

We questioned the school adminstration

1. Who are you, as a school?

"Saplings Nature School teaches students to connect deeply to place, to be active citizens, and to engage critically in the world around them. Learning in, with, and from nature benefits a student's motivation, mental health, and engagement. Based on the belief that nature is a powerful teacher, Saplings’ students become intimately tied to the natural environment, responding to an ever-changing outdoor classroom. Students deepen their relationship with nature, themselves, one another their community"

Spending time learning outside with hands-on experiences enhances student engagement.
Meeting students where they are at and growing from there is a fundamental philosophy.
Creating respectful relationships with oneself, others, and nature is key to a healthy future.
Paying attention to one's social and emotional needs builds important skills, attitudes & abilities.
Creating thoughtful connections to student interests opens doors to further exploration.
We encourage our learners to delve deeply into diverse topics through developing research skills.
We offer project-based inquiry as well as skill- and knowledge-building seminar sessions.
We aim to be learner-centered, flexible, and focused on key subject areas of the BC curriculum.
We encompass personalized and place-based learning focused on core competencies.
Saplings respects, reflects, and appreciates diversity in our classroom .

2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?

"By supporting our students’ fundamental need to explore, discover, share, and create in both the indoor classroom as well as in the broader, natural community that surrounds us,...(more)

3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

"At Saplings, our commitment to outdoor, play-based, and child-led learning means embracing tradeoffs. We intentionally de-emphasize standardized academics in favour of nurturing...(more)

4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

"Saplings Nature School was born from a deep-rooted belief in the power of the natural world to inspire, ground, and teach children. A key influence has been founder Heather...(more)

5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?

"A child who thrives at Saplings Nature School is curious, imaginative, and eager to explore the world through hands-on, play-based learning. Our ideal student is one who benefits...(more)

6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

"We want every child to thrive, and that begins with a strong alignment between our values and a family’s expectations. Saplings may not be the best fit for children who are...(more)

7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

"Families choose Saplings because they’re looking for something different—something more intentional, connected, and aligned with their values. Many are seeking an alternative...(more)

8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

"We believe Saplings is seen as a trusted, heart-led alternative to conventional schooling. Amongst the public—especially families seeking a values-aligned, nature-based...(more)

9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

"One of the most underappreciated aspects of Saplings is the intentionality behind everything we do. While families often see the joy and freedom in our outdoor program, they may...(more)

10. What might families find surprising about your school?

"Families are often surprised by just how much depth, structure, and intentional learning happens in what looks like “just play.” While our outdoor, child-led environment may...(more)

11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

Information not yet available.

12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?

"Over the next five years, Saplings Nature School will continue to grow intentionally while staying rooted in our core philosophy of outdoor, child-led learning. We plan to expand...(more)

We got insight from alumni, parents, and students

Parent, Lucy Brunke (2025)

(5)

Nursery/Toddler (current) — My daughter started at Saplings attending the toddler program at age 2. It was a great introduction to being away from home, learning social skills with children her age and being immersed in nature. The educators were fantastic—they helped my child feel comfortable away from home, had fun and interesting activities every session, and always had a positive attitude. Now, my daughter is in the preschool program and loves it—she asks to go 7 days a week! She has built close friendships with many other children and adores her teachers. She has grown into a strong, determined and creative child, no doubt helped by the time she’s spent in nature, in all the elements, surrounded by a fantastic group of educators.

Parent, Jillian Clapham (2025)

(4.8)

Gr. 2 (current) — Saplings has been an incredible experience for our daughter. She joined the school in October, entering grade 1 and has never looked back. Being outside for 3 hours daily has been transformative for our very active and curious daughter. Rain or shine, she is in her element. Our daughter loves being outside and being surrounded by teachers who are passionate about nature and conservation. Her confidence has really increased by being able to regulate quicker outside and being part of a strong inclusive environment. She comes home telling us stories about the water cycle, local birds, and the salmon life cycle. She loves the integration into the local community. The school participates in all the local activities and the before and after school cares includes Capilano Elementary so she is getting exposure to kids in her local community. Our daughter loves the combination of a morning outside and a creative classroom experience with a low student-to-teacher ratio. She has thrived with the hands-on learning environment in the school and really feels like she has a voice.

Parent, Dinah Fast (2025)

(5)

Nursery/Toddler (current) — Saplings has been an amazing outlook for my son who has boundless amounts of energy and enjoys a different type of education. When he comes home from school, he is absolutely exhausted and has a huge smile on his face. Before when I had him in a traditional daycare, he would come home, squeaky clean. There is nothing better than picking him up, completely soaking and dirty with mud behind his ears, knowing that he has spent a full day outside in nature. There is a large number of teachers per child, so I know he’s getting the attention he needs, he gets access to indoor activities such as art and rest time and books, but the major majority of the day is spent outside in nature on walks, going to the beach, going to the skate park. He is also learning about nature in ways that I wouldn’t think to teach.

Parent, harrison kwan (2025)

(4.1)

Preschool (current) — My daughter, who is typically shy and takes time to warm up, was initially hesitant about joining Saplings Nature School. However, the teachers created a welcoming and inclusive environment that helped her feel at ease from the start. Over time, her confidence grew, and the natural setting provided her with unique opportunities to explore, build, and problem-solve in ways she wouldn’t have experienced in a traditional classroom. She learned about plants, animals, and indigenous cultures, and developed valuable life skills that she continues to use today. Beyond academics, she’s also become more independent and learned the importance of sharing and cooperation. Overall, her time at Saplings has been a transformative experience that has nurtured her growth in so many ways. Thank you for the experience!

Parent, Katrina Lazzarotto (2025)

(4.5)

Gr. 3 (current),Gr. 1 (current) — My kids absolutely love Saplings—it was the change we all needed after coming from a public elementary school in VSB, where outdoor time wasn’t prioritized. They thrive in the freedom and less restrictive nature of the school, where children can arrive at a time that suits their families and are met with respect and joy the moment they connect with their classmates. One of the biggest factors contributing to my boys' positive start to the day is the 30-minute buffer of outdoor playtime before instruction begins. This break helps them transition from the morning rush, allowing them to settle into their bodies, no matter how they woke up. The kindness and respect they receive from teachers and TAs make them feel safe, encouraging them to share their ideas, games, and personalities with their peers. Additionally, the supportive friendships and positive group dynamics have given my boys the confidence to unmask and be themselves, helping them form deeper connections with other kids.

See all reviews (5 total)

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THE OUR KIDS REPORT:
Saplings Nature School