There are many families who feel that the traditional educational system doesn’t reflect the way children develop, learn and excel. The rigidity of schedules and the constant testing leave little time for curiosity, creativity, and experiences that are meaningful. The Volo learning community was founded in response to this growing anxiety, and offers a model of education that emphasizes both academic progress and well-being.
Volo is an alternative school whose ethos is based on the belief that students learn best when they are they’re involved to their surroundings, capable, and enthused. Volo does not force students to follow a system that fits every child, but instead tailors learning to suit the individual child’s needs and pace. The pace of learning is based on the child’s readiness, not on age or level. This allows students to increase their confidence by achieving realistic goals.
Image credit: yovolo.org
Discover Beyond Four Walls
Volo is renowned for its emphasis on outdoor education. Nature is an integral part in the daily curriculum, rather than providing a backdrop, or an periodic breaks. Students spend most of their time in natural environments that aid in bringing academic concepts into reality.
The application of mathematics is made possible by calculating natural patterns, measuring distances, or tracking movements. Science grows out of the direct observation of ecosystems, weather and animals. Writing begins often with contemplation, exploration and stories influenced by their surroundings. Learning is tangible when it’s connected to the real world.
These techniques reflect the ideals of a Forest school where discovery through hands-on activities takes the place of passive instruction. Explore, build, climb and observe. They develop physical confidence and strength through these types of activities.
Learn at Your Own Speed without stress
At Volo Learning plans are created around each individual child. Instead of comparing students to external benchmarks or assessing their growth over time teachers place more weight on the effort and growth of each child. If there are no the grade level, students are able to proceed when they’re ready. This removes unnecessary competition and pressure.
Students participate in shaping their own educational journey. Students are encouraged to establish goals, make choices and consider their own learning experiences. Teachers are instructors and guide students in a way that is not excessive. The result is less like teaching and more like mentoring.
This approach cultivates agency and intrinsic motivation. Children begin to see learning as something they can own instead of something that is forced upon them.
Community as a Learning Environment
Volo is a small learning community that actively fosters friendships. Students thrive in an environment of trust and belonging, develop lasting friendships and gain knowledge from students across the age spectrum. Students who are older support students who are younger, while younger students bring energy and curiosity into shared experiences.
Real-world experiences are essential to the development of both capabilities and character. Students may participate in creative construction, conservation efforts or even collaborative planning. These opportunities teach responsibility, cooperation, and empathy as well as increasing practical skills.
Contribution is the new competition. Children learn that their ideas are valuable and that their learning serves a significance that goes beyond the academic results.
A holistic view of growth
The philosophy of education at Volo aligns closely with Holistic education, which recognizes that learning goes beyond intellectual ability. As part of the growth process emotional health, physical fitness, social connection and self-awareness is considered important.
Volo is focused on the long-term aspects including adaptability and creativity. Students discover who they really are and what is it that makes them tick. They also learn how to contribute positively in the world.
The kind of learning environment that this type of provides prepares children for real life instead of relying on outdated standards. They learn to think on their own and are able to tackle challenges with confidence.
Reimagining the role of school
The Volo alternative school offers a powerful example of how education can evolve. The Volo alternative school demonstrates that education does not need to be restricted to rigid classrooms, rigid systems or stress. If children feel safe and encouraged learning is a natural and joyful part of everyday life.
For families looking for an education that celebrates both intellect and childhood, Volo offers a thoughtful approach that is grounded in connection, growth and a meaningful experience.