Frequently Asked Questions

  • No. Earth School Aotearoa is a facilitated, part-time learning environment, not a registered or full-time school. Our programs are designed to complement homeschooling or mainstream schooling, not replace it. Responsibility for children’s education remains with parents or caregivers.

  • Our One Day Programs are designed for children aged approximately 5–12, learning together in small, mixed-age groups.


    Worldschooling families typically join with children across a similar age range, though we consider fit by stage as well as age.

    If you’re unsure whether your child is a good fit, we’re happy to talk it through.

    • One Day Programs: one full day per week (Monday or Thursday), during term time.

    • Worldschooling: children are welcomed into Earth School’s weekly learning days during their stay. Participation is invitational and flexible.

    Earth School does not operate as a five-day-per-week school.

  • A learning day usually includes:

    • a gentle arrival and opening circle

    • outdoor exploration and nature-based inquiry

    • creative and hands-on learning (art, building, storytelling, music)

    • shared meals and care of space

    • time for reflection and closing together

    Days follow a predictable rhythm, while allowing flexibility for children’s interests and energy.

  • Both. Learning at Earth School is invitation-based and gently structured.

    Educators design the environment, themes, and rhythms of the day, while children are supported to follow curiosity, explore deeply, and engage at their own pace. We value guidance without pressure.

  • Literacy, numeracy, and scientific thinking are woven naturally into daily activities — through reading, writing, measuring, counting, problem-solving, observation, and discussion — rather than taught as isolated subjects.

    Families remain responsible for overseeing their child’s overall educational progress.

  • No. Participation is invitational, not compulsory.

    Children are encouraged and supported to engage, while also being respected when they need space, rest, or a different entry point. Over time, trust and participation tend to grow naturally.

  • We take a relational, supportive approach grounded in care, clear boundaries, and consistency.

    Educators focus on:

    • emotional safety

    • respectful communication

    • modelling care for people and place

    • supporting children to repair and learn from challenges

    Punitive discipline is not part of our approach.

  • Group sizes are intentionally small to protect the quality of relationships, learning, and care. Exact numbers vary by term and day, but we prioritise depth over scale.

  • Yes. Many families use One Day Programs to complement mainstream schooling, offering their child a weekly day of nature-based, creative, and relational learning.

  • No. Parents are welcome but not required unless they’ve signed up for a volunteer day.

    One Day Programs are facilitated learning days — parents may drop off and pick up children.

    Worldschooling families live on site during their stay, but children may attend Earth School learning days independently.

  • Families are asked to engage with openness, respect, and care for the learning environment. This includes:

    • clear communication

    • commitment to agreed days and terms

    supporting shared values of stewardship and respect

    • One Day Programs: $650 per child, per term (one day per week), with a 10% sibling reduction available.

    • Worldschooling: costs vary depending on accommodation, length of stay, and family needs. We share detailed information by conversation.

    Sample days are available prior to committing term fees. Please see the relevant program page for more details.

  • We offer limited, needs-based support and sibling considerations where possible. Families are welcome to enquire about options — this does not affect how enquiries are considered.

  • Enrolment is by enquiry.

    This allows time for conversation, questions, and ensuring a good fit for children, families, and the learning environment. Spaces are limited.

  • If something isn’t answered here, please get in touch. We’re happy to talk things through and help you decide whether Earth School Aotearoa is right for your family.