Welcome to Hidden Valley Forest School

Blended Learning. Big Adventures. Whole Child Growth.

Nestled in the heart of Crozet, VA, Hidden Valley Forest School is a licensed nature-based microschool offering a truly unique learning experience for children ages 5–10. Since 2022, we’ve been helping children thrive through our innovative approach that combines the best of traditional academics with the joy, freedom, and wonder of outdoor exploration.

What Makes Us Different?

Blended Learning at Its Best

At HVFS, we believe the best education happens both indoors and out. Our program blends structured academic instruction with hands-on, experiential learning in nature. On average, our students spend 2+ hours outdoors daily—far beyond the 30-minute outdoor time typical of most schools. We learn from the forest, the creek, the fields, and each other.

Curriculum

At Hidden Valley Forest School, our curriculum blends evidence-based academic resources with the natural rhythms of the forest and the unique interests of our students. We use Reading A-Z to support literacy development, UnboundEd for a strong foundation in math, and the Wonder Garden curriculum for our nature-based learning, which uses biweekly themes inspired by the rhythms of the seasons, local wildlife, and native flora. Our time in nature is also a constant source of inspiration and discovery.

Mixed-Age Classrooms

We embrace multi-age learning, where younger and older children work and play together. This encourages mentorship, collaboration, and natural social-emotional development. Kids aren’t separated by arbitrary grade lines—they grow and learn at their own pace, supported by peers and teachers alike.

Solid Academics + the Freedom to Play

We believe that play is essential to learning. While we provide a strong academic foundation in reading, writing, math, science, and the arts, we also fiercely protect every child's right to play. At HVFS, we understand that outdoor exploration and child-led play opportunities are essential to a child's optimal development—cognitively, socially, and physically. On average, our students spend at least two hours every day, year-round, engaged in outdoor play and nature exploration—whether it’s sunny, snowy, or somewhere in between. Free play is not an afterthought—it’s a vital part of how children build resilience, creativity, and confidence.

Deep Relationships, Small Community

With a maximum of 12 children and two full-time educators, every child is truly known. We build meaningful relationships and foster an environment where children feel safe, respected, and motivated to explore their interests and ideas.

Flexible for Homeschoolers & Full-Time Learners

Families can choose the schedule that fits their needs—whether that’s 1–2 days a week as a supplement to homeschooling or a full-time, four-day academic experience. We’re here to support your child’s learning journey, however that may look.

Licensed for Safety & Quality

Hidden Valley Forest School is licensed by the state of Virginia, meaning we meet—and exceed—all health and safety standards set by the Virginia Department of Education. From highly qualified teachers and rigorous training to safe facilities, low child-to-teacher ratios, and detailed emergency preparedness plans, our licensing ensures children are learning and playing in a secure, well-regulated environment. All teachers undergo extensive background checks, maintain current CPR and First Aid certifications, and required 16 hours of annual professional development training related to education and child development. Families can feel confident knowing their child’s education and well-being are supported by both our passion for outdoor learning and the highest standards of care.

Why Nature?

We believe nature is the ultimate classroom. It teaches problem-solving, observation, patience, and wonder. Our students hike, track animals, study ecosystems, build shelters, garden, and investigate real-life questions in real-world environments—all while building academic knowledge. Backed by extensive research, time in nature and outdoor learning are essential foundations for a healthy childhood and a bright future.

Our Programs

Core Program (Kindergarten–3rd Grade)

Mondays–Thursdays | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
This is our flagship program, offering a blended indoor/outdoor academic experience rooted in play, inquiry, and exploration. We provide a full academic foundation while ensuring ample time for nature-based learning, free play, and hands-on discovery. Families may choose a full-time schedule or select specific days that work best for them.

Aftercare Enrichment Program

Mondays - Fridays | 3:00–5:30 PM | $17.50/day for Fixed Schedules | Drop-ins $20/day

Our aftercare program is often the highlight of a child’s day—so much so, they may not want to leave at pick-up! We extend the joy of the forest school experience into the late afternoon with nature play, fort building, hikes to the creek, active games, and seasonal crafts.

You do not need to be enrolled in our core program to join aftercare—we welcome students from Crozet Elementary, Brownsville Elementary, and other surrounding schools!

Families can sign up for the days they need, making this a great fit for both consistent routines and flexible schedules. While we currently do not offer transportation, some families arrange to have their child’s school bus drop off at our location—check with your child’s school to see if this is an option.

Please note that our aftercare program follows the HVFS academic calendar and will be closed on any day the school is closed, including holidays and teacher work days. For details, please refer to our school calendar. Monthly invoices are not pro-rated due to school or weather-related closures.

Ages 5–11
Schedule a tour or learn more:
info@hiddenvalleyforestschool.com
301-642-7022