The Blue Mountains has recently welcomed a new offering to the home schooling community, Kookaburra Bush School. We interview their founders, teachers, Amy and Kristy to learn more.

What is Kookaburra Bush School?

Home School community tutoring program that supports Home Schooling families meet the NSW Education Curriculum requirements through a Steiner approach to learning. Our classroom takes the form of a bell tent which sits up on a wooden platform looking out into the bush, this setting calms the nervous system and allows children to feel connected to themselves and nature. We nurture our small group classes where children of diverse ages and backgrounds can connect and learn together.

Where are you located? Tell us about the land/ property and how you're working with it to educate your students?

We are located on a 5-acre bush property in Bullaburra, called Kookaburra Dreaming. Kookaburra Dreaming is home to Kookaburra Bush Play Group and Kookaburra Bush School. A community garden, bush walks and caves, bush play area, rope swings, chooks and native wildlife surround this beautiful space.

What sparked and motivated you to start the school?

During the past two years we have come to notice a great need for Community and Nature for ourselves and our children. For some the main stream schooling system does not meet the needs of the child and we decided to create a space that suits families and children who are craving this connection to nature and community.

What are some of the key things you learn from this environment that are different from traditional classroom systems?

In this setting children are learning from real life experiences such as gardening, worm farms and nature observations. Children are given the time and space to learn on their own terms and within their learning preferences. Our day follows the strengths and needs of the children with a strong focus on mindfulness throughout the day. We take our time when following our rhythm and the environment gives the opportunity for children to express their natural creativity and problem-solving skills. They lead us in many cases and we have take the time to notice and learn from them.

What is your favorite part of the day with the kids? After grounding in during Morning Circle we head into the tent for our Main Lesson, the children are calm, focused and ready to learn. Its so peaceful and rewarding to see them genuinely connected to their learning.

What are some of the future plans for the school? Expansion, we would like to be able to offer more days per week as well as school holiday programs. As we receive more enrolments, we would love to be able to offer three days per week. The school holiday program will hopefully be ready to go for the April school holidays. We also hope to facilitate camps and excursions in the future.

What have been some of your favorite class moments?

Beginning the craft lesson was a favourite as we started our felt bush bags, the children amazed us with their focus and dedication to creating something personal and beautiful. We have many fun moments, our favourite is watching the kids laugh at our fabulous song and dance routines.

Any classic one liners from the kids?

The kids know so many fun facts and are constantly wowing us with their knowledge … such as how worms make babies, where roosters go for haircuts and us trying to keep up with the constant “Whys” .. which we absolutely love and encourage.