About | Second Nature School

A little about us

Second Nature School operates as a therapeutic, private elementary school and offers children ages 6 to 12 (and children ages 4 and 5 as through our Early Years Program) the opportunity to access a safe, neuro-affirming, trauma-informed educational space that is rooted in attachment and grounded in nature.

Second Nature School prides itself in offering a home-like classroom atmosphere which naturally evolved along with children’s interests, the seasons, and educational goals. Here, a love of learning is fostered through the power of inquiry-based learning and exploratory and therapeutic play.

Second Nature School curriculum has been developed by a host of like-minded professionals who believe that children flourish best when they are supported and cared for. Second Nature School curriculum provides opportunities for relationship and skill building, and integrates invitations to explore a variety of subjects including, but not limited to, Language Arts, STEM, Physical Education, Social Studies, and Life Skills.

Second Nature School provides elementary school children with an alternative learning environment that is neuro-affirming, child-centred, and rooted in nature. Second Nature Educators are qualified professionals and carry with them designations that lend to our educational and therapeutic offerings. Our Educators are Certified Ontario Teachers, Early Childhood Educators, Social Service Workers, Social Workers, Psychotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Mental Health Counsellors, among others and have direct contact with children. Second Nature School provides a 1:4 Educator/Student ratio which can be modified based on need. Second Nature School also offers alternative communication through American Sign Language (ASL) and French!

Most importantly, Second Nature School curriculum is safe, trauma-informed and accessible. Second Nature School curriculum has been written as an evolving document that is shaped by the individual children who call Second Nature School home. At Second Nature, we understand the importance of intersectionality and that each student and family come to Second Nature with unique lived experiences that will work to inform our learning program.

Mission

To become a beacon of positive change in the area of education by providing a neuro-affirming learning environment where children are accepted as they are and where strengths are celebrated.

Slogan

Where children are accepted as they are.

Vision

Second Nature School is uniquely positioned to offer neuro-affirming and attachment-based care that is trauma-informed and grounded in nature. Second Nature School believes in a strengths-based approach where children are welcomed as they are and where the school environment flexes to support the gifts of each child.

Second Nature School aims to change the Ottawa private school landscape by offering an alternative learning environment for children and families who may be struggling with traditional educational institutions.

Second Nature School, in partnership with Second Nature Family Health & Wellness Centre and its subsidiary programs, wishes to evolve the Ottawa educational landscape through its educational programs, consultancy, and professional services which put children, youth, and families first.