Chatmore Launches New Beach Schooling
Chatmore announced the launch of its Beach Schooling programme, an “innovative extension of its Forest Schooling programmes and commitment to connecting the outdoors with learning.”
A spokesperson said, “This initiative follows the recent certification of one of our teachers as a Certified Beach School Practitioner through Forest Schools Education Ltd., ensuring the program is rooted in internationally recognized best practices.”
“Through Beach school we provide rich opportunities for holistic and experiential learning, completely immersing the students in the coastal environment. This approach allows them to drive their own learning through environmental exploration, making direct curriculum connections while simultaneously strengthening their social and emotional well-being,” shares certified Beach School Practitioner and Chatmore primary teacher, Nelgene Barnett.
The spokesperson said, “Beginning this term, students across all grade levels from reception through to high school, will participate in regular beach-based learning sessions. These experiences will give learners the chance to explore the coastline, engage with Bermuda’s marine environment, and build skills that extend far beyond the classroom. This extends the forest school programming already offered. Forest Schooling is not simply learning outside, but a distinct educational approach that uses nature as both the classroom and the teacher, emphasizing child-led exploration, risk-taking, and hands-on experiences that build resilience and problem-solving skills in ways a traditional outdoor lesson cannot.
“Beach Schooling provides similar opportunities and provides students with opportunities to investigate science through the study of tides, ecosystems, and coastal wildlife. It connects curriculum learning to the natural environment, drawing inspiration from the shoreline and most importantly, develops teamwork, resilience, and problem-solving through outdoor experiences and group activities.Additionally, it encourages environmental stewardship by allowing students to experience firsthand the value of Bermuda’s coastal resources.”
“Beach Schooling is more than just taking the classroom outside,” said Britanni Butterworth, Director of Chatmore. “It is about empowering students to learn through direct engagement with nature which is part of our school’s DNA.”
The spokesperson said, “For middle and high school students, the programme offers dedicated times for deeper inquiry, science and engineering and leadership development, allowing them to model and mentor younger students while also expanding their own academic and personal growth. This inter-age collaboration strengthens the sense of community across the school and mirrors the “real-world” teamwork skills that are vital for success beyond school.
“Chatmore’s Beach & Forest Schooling initiative builds on the school’s holistic approach, which emphasizes experiential learning, wellbeing, and the development of character. By offering opportunities for hands-on discovery in nature, the program reflects Chatmore’s belief that education should prepare students not only for exams, but also for life.
“Through this initiative, Chatmore reaffirms its mission to nurture learners who are curious, confident, and connected to their community and environment. The Beach & Forest programming will ensure that students consistently benefit from the mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing that comes from learning outdoors, while strengthening their academic growth through applied, real-world experiences.”
Read More About
Category: All
