Cultivating a community of explorers, scientists, and environmental stewards

Launched last school year, Epiphany School’s Outdoor Education Program immerses our students in a classroom without walls—where every tree, rock, and breeze invite exploration and inquiry. From pre-k through fifth grade, our young adventurers are encouraged to tune into their senses, ask questions, and unlock the mysteries of the natural world. Whether they’re studying the patterns of rainfall, the diversity of local flora and fauna, or the secrets of the soil, they are guided to observe, question, and analyze with the keen eye of a scientist.

Natural Curiosity

It’s all about cultivating a profound sense of wonder and stewardship for the natural world. From crafting stormwater solutions to learning about pollinators, our students engage their hands and minds through experiential learning. On neighborhood explorations—like trekking through Madrona Woods or spending time on the shores of Lake Washington—our students practice treading lightly and observing their environment closely. They tend our school garden, restore habitats, and embrace sustainable practices that honor and protect our planet. Through shared experiences, they learn the value of teamwork, communication, and collective problem-solving, laying the foundation for a lifetime of adventurous inquiry.

The Outdoors is for Everyone

One goal of our program is for students to understand that the outdoors is a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of background or ability. To that end, we equip students with the skills to confidently plan outdoor adventures and to embrace diverse outdoor activities. Students practice orienteering, trip planning, leave no trace principles, how to set up a tent, and how to be comfortable in the elements. By fostering this inclusive mindset and providing them with the necessary tools, we empower children to explore and enjoy a wide range of outdoor pursuits throughout their lives.

Everything is Connected

Each activity in the Outdoor Education Program has been thoughtfully designed to highlight
the interconnectedness of nature. Once children understand that everything in nature is connected,
they can develop a sense of environmental stewardship and empathy towards all living things.

Diving Deep at NatureBridge

While most of our outdoor ed programming takes place within the school day, each fall our fifth graders head to Olympic National Park for an immersive three-day field trip at NatureBridge. At this residential environmental education center, they canoe Lake Crescent to test water, meet Native elders, explore local geography and history, and hike Mount Storm King. Equally important, they bond over fun games and team-building activities, setting the group up for an even more meaningful and connected final year at Epiphany.

Stronger Together

Participating in teamwork within our outdoor education program teaches children invaluable
skills in collaboration and communication. Activities focused on stewardship and
sustainability not only educate children about environmental responsibility but also
foster a sense of shared purpose and unity among team members. By working together
to conserve and protect natural spaces— weeding and harvesting in our school garden,
for example—children learn firsthand the importance of collective effort in preserving
our planet for future generations.

To learn more, explore our Outdoor Education curriculum web page.