At The College School, academic rigor and experiential learning are not separate tracks—they are woven together to create a rich, meaningful education. Through immersive, hands-on experiences, students don’t just memorize content—they engage with it, question it, and apply it in ways that build both knowledge and confidence.
Core subjects are taught through dynamic, thematic projects that span disciplines and often connect across grade levels. This integrated approach helps students make deeper connections, see relevance in their learning, and retain it long after the lesson ends. Whether they’re investigating a local ecosystem, running a student-led business, or writing from lived experience, students develop not only strong academic skills, but also critical life skills—like collaboration, adaptability, and self-awareness—that prepare them for the world beyond the classroom.
Direct Experience
Mastery of the academic disciplines begins with direct experiences. Kindergartners hike in the woods; 1st Graders make maple syrup; 3rd Graders build a model community; 5th Graders tag Monarch butterflies; 8th Graders conduct chemistry experiments in local streams. Direct and authentic personal lessons happen in our classrooms, on our LaBarque Campus, and on our Adventure Education trips and experiences.
Reflection
After the experience, significant and important time is spent reflecting. Students need to unpack and process what they have learned. They discuss, journal, paint, and create in order to crystallize and share the important academic and personal lessons they have learned. The reflection on the experience is as important as the experience itself.
Application
After reflection, the important third step of application and transference happens. When a direct experience with rock climbing teaches the personal skill of perseverance or the academic skill of perspective writing, students then apply the acquired skills to other projects and other situations. With the application, students are always building upon, practicing, and more deeply understanding what they have learned.
Outcomes of Experiential Learning
• Confident, self-directed learners who take initiative and ownership of their learning
• Skilled communicators who can articulate ideas clearly in writing, speaking, and presentation
• Creative problem-solvers who think critically and adapt to new challenges
• Collaborative team members who know how to listen, contribute, and lead
• Empathetic citizens who understand different perspectives and value community
• Resilient individuals who embrace failure as part of the learning process
• Curious thinkers who ask thoughtful questions and seek deeper understanding
• Prepared students who transition successfully into high school and beyond
• Global-minded learners who see connections between their learning and the world
• Joyful participants in their education, excited to learn, explore, and grow
