Outdoor Education

Outdoor & Expeditionary Learning

Venture Academy’s approach to outdoor education embodies a forward-thinking blend of tradition and innovation, particularly within the context of a Christian Worldview. Getting outside, experiencing, and exploring the natural environment is essential to a child’s well-being and a real antidote to the pandemic shutdown. Research shows that outdoor learning increases students’ self-esteem, self-confidence, ability to work cooperatively, and positive attitude. The 160-acre outdoor learning classroom, literally on Venture’s campus, includes woods, trails, rolling hills, and wetlands.

Venture’s innovative outdoor spaces, ultimately including hammock gardens, high-tech tents, and solar-powered greenhouses, serve dual purposes of relaxation and experiential learning. These environments act as outdoor classrooms where students can engage in various activities, from science experiments to reflective reading sessions, all within the nurturing embrace of nature. This approach to education promotes academic development, spiritual growth, and well-being, reflecting the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Through these carefully designed spaces, students learn to appreciate the beauty and intricacy of creation, fostering a sense of responsibility and wonder toward the natural world.

Venture utilizes real-life adventure experiences such as orienteering, geo-caching, backpacking, canoeing, rock climbing, and overnight camping trips as an extension of the outdoor learning center. Other subjects are integrated into our expeditionary experiences to further develop students’ intellectual, social, and emotional skills. These include decision-making, conflict resolution, resilience, critical thinking, problem-solving, and motivation.

Venture Academy’s commitment to regenerative farming practices exemplifies stewardship and care for the Earth. Students learn the importance of sustainability, restoration, and renewal by treating the natural world. This hands-on approach to environmental stewardship, focusing on restoring soil health and ecosystems, educates students about sustainable living and serves the wider community by providing organic food. It demonstrates how faith can inspire meaningful change and nurture a generation of environmentally conscious, caring individuals.

Venture Academy’s outdoor education program is a testament to the power of integrating faith with innovative educational practices. It prepares students to lead with wisdom, compassion, and a deep respect for the natural world.