At The College School in St. Louis, we believe that education should be an adventure—one that inspires curiosity, fosters creativity, and builds confidence. Our forward-thinking approach combines experiential learning, outdoor exploration, and reflective practices to prepare students from preschool through 8th grade for a lifetime of meaningful learning. By engaging students in real-world experiences and encouraging critical thinking from an early age, we help them grow into capable, compassionate, and resilient learners—ready to thrive in high school, college, and life beyond.
An Approach Rooted in Experience
Our educational model draws from leading philosophies, including:
- Constructivist Education (Jean Piaget) – Emphasizing constructivist learning where students build understanding through experience.
- Progressive Education (John Dewey) – Advocating for progressive education that connects learning to real-life contexts.
- Reggio Emilia Approach (Loris Malaguzzi) – Valuing student-led inquiry and exploration.
By integrating these philosophies, we create a learning environment that is dynamic, inclusive, and student-centered.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
At TCS, education extends far beyond traditional classroom walls. Our students engage in:
- Experiential Learning: Hands-on projects that make learning tangible and meaningful.
- Adventure Education: Outdoor experiences that challenge students and build resilience.
- Reflective Practices: Encouraging students to think deeply about their learning journeys.
- Sustainability Education: Instilling environmental stewardship through real-world applications.
Whether it’s conducting science experiments in our greenhouse, exploring local ecosystems, or collaborating on community projects, our students learn by doing.
A Journey of Discovery
Our commitment to experiential education is evident in our extensive fieldwork. With three school buses logging over 10,000 miles annually, students venture into cities, neighborhoods, and natural landscapes, turning the world into their classroom.
Preparation for Lifelong Learning
At The College School, we don’t just teach subjects—we cultivate thinkers, problem-solvers, and compassionate citizens. Our students learn to read and travel, write and create, discover and reflect. They develop skills and mindsets that serve them throughout their lives.
