Erdkinder Field Experiences
Maria Montessori used the term “erdkinder” (“children of the earth”) to describe adolescents who are preparing to enter the larger, global community. Out-of-classroom Erdkinder field experiences are an essential element of the Montessori education provided to adolescent students at Gamble Montessori High School.
DONATE NOW to support Erdkinder field experiences at Gamble Montessori High School.
"We especially need imagination in science. It is not all mathematics, nor all logic, but it is somewhat beauty and poetry."
~ Maria Montessori
“We cannot create observers by saying ‘observe,’ but by giving them the power and the means for this observation and these means are procured through education of the senses.”
ON-CAMPUS ERDKINDER
Students at Gamble Montessori High School participate in a variety of Erdkinder field experiences right here “at home” on our beautiful 14-acre campus. In addition to several designated outdoor learning spaces, students practice sustainable agriculture in our new permaculture orchard, and contribute to their community through beautification projects around the school grounds.
All hands are needed to get the tents up correctly.
Junior High fall camp
A three-day, two-night primitive camping experience where students engage with the natural world through environmental activities, canoeing the Little Miami River, and conducting service work at the campsite. Students work together to set up and take down their tents, prepare daily meals for the entire group, and build relationships with their peers. Current science and social studies topics are also embedded into the experience.
7th grade spring leadership camp
A three-day, two-night leadership development program that provides opportunities for team-building and collaborative problem-solving as well as challenge-by-choice experiences that allow students to extend themselves beyond their perceived limits. This trip prepares these students to take on the leadership role in their JH community as next years 8th graders.
Team work lifts the “swinger” up to the tree tops before releasing the Giant Swing.
Heading out to snorkel on the coral reef at Looe Key!
8th grade pigeon key marine biology trip
In partnership with our friends at the Pigeon Key Foundation, 8th grade students participate in six days of immersive study on site at the Pigeon Key Marine Science Center in Florida. Students learn to snorkel, identify and collect organisms for the water lab, and visit a turtle rehabilitation center as part of their experience. This trip serves as a culminating, real-world application of science concepts learned over the course of two years of study.
high school intersessions
At GMHS, high school intersessions are two-week immersive learning experiences that take place “between sessions” (mid-semester). Students are offered a wide variety of focus areas to choose from, including:
Practical Life Skills (Adulting 101)
Hiking in the Smoky Mountains
Whitewater Rafting
Urban Farming & Sustainability
Animal Rescue & Conservation
