Hooked on Learning: Level 5's Week at School in Nature

This spring, our Level 5 students traded desks for fishing rods, whiteboards for wilderness, and routine schedules for the unpredictability of nature during their weeklong School in Nature trip. Designed as a sleepaway camp with a focus on freshwater ecosystems and outdoor survival skills, Areál Katlov provided a program that was as enriching as it was adventurous.

What is School in Nature?

At its core, School in Nature serves two key purposes:

1. Building team spirit and collaborative skills

2. Gaining knowledge and practical abilities that are difficult to acquire in a traditional classroom setting

By taking learning into the natural world, students developed new competencies while strengthening their connection to one another and to the environment.

A Week in the Wild

Our Level 5 students spent 100% of their daylight hours outdoors and even braved one night sleeping under the stars. Throughout the week, they were immersed in the rich ecosystem surrounding a freshwater habitat. With curious minds and keen eyes, they observed fish, birds, amphibians, and plant life—all in their natural settings.

Hands-On Learning

Each day was filled with opportunities to learn by doing. The students practiced:

• Fishing techniques – from preparing and using a rod to understanding aquatic habitats

• Nature journaling – recording observations and reflections daily

• Oral communication – sharing thoughts and feedback during group discussions

• Tree identification – learning to recognize local species by their leaves and bark

• Shelter building and fire safety – constructing waterproof shelters and practicing safe fire use

• Mapping and navigation – drawing maps of their surroundings, locating hidden objects using map orientation, and estimating distances with spatial awareness

• Problem-solving with ciphers – encrypting and decrypting messages in team challenges

• Basic first aid – from CPR and treating minor injuries to knowing when and how to call for help

  
  

Students also learned to take care of their space, manage their belongings, and support one another—essential life skills that often emerge most naturally in shared, unfamiliar environments.

An Experience to Remember

By the end of the week, students had grown not only in knowledge but in independence, confidence, and resilience. School in Nature gave them a chance to unplug, explore, and discover new strengths—both in themselves and in each other.

And not to worry—while we spent a lot of time around wildlife, all animals were observed respectfully and left completely unharmed (unless you count a few startled frogs and confused fish).

We’re incredibly proud of the adventurous spirit our Level 5 students brought to this unforgettable week. Their curiosity, courage, and teamwork made it something truly special—and with such a successful trip behind us, you can bet this won’t be the last outdoor adventure we plan.

Stay tuned for more muddy boots and adventures in the future!