Many families today believe that the traditional education system doesn’t reflect the way kids actually develop, learn and excel. The strict schedules, continuous tests and standardised standards often do not allow for creativity or curiosity. Neither do memorable experiences. Volo Learning Community was designed in response. This model of education emphasizes academic growth and emotional wellbeing.
Volo is an alternative school whose ethos is based on the belief students learn best when they are they’re involved with their peers, are competent and enthusiastic. Instead of imposing on students a one-size-fits-all system, Volo shapes learning around the individual’s pace and interests. The learning progress is based on the child’s readiness, not on age or level. This allows students to gain confidence by achieving real objectives.
Image credit: yovolo.org
The Art of Learning Beyond Four Walls
A defining element of the Volo approach is its strong focus on outdoor learning. Nature plays an increasingly active role than merely an interruption or background during the course of study. Students spend a lot of time out in nature, and interact with real environments to bring ideas from the classroom to life.
Mathematics is made practical by the measuring of distances, tracking movement or by finding natural patterns. Science is born from direct observation of ecosystems, weather and wildlife. Writing is usually a the process of reflection, storytelling and a fascination with the environment around them. Learning becomes tangible when it is connected to actual life experiences.
These methods are based upon the principles of Forest Schools where active exploration is preferred to instructive passive. Children are able to climb, build and watch. These types of activities help children build their resilience, problem solving abilities, physical strength, and academic understanding.
Learn at your own pace without stress
Volo Learning plans are designed on the individual needs of each child. Instead of comparing children with external benchmarks, the teachers concentrate on effort, growth, and their progress through the course of. The absence of predetermined classes allows students to move forward when they are capable, without the need for stress and competition.
Students take part in the design of their own learning paths. They are encouraged to make choices, set goals, and reflect on their experiences. Teachers serve as guides, encouraging students but not overburdening them. This results in less teaching and more like mentoring.
This approach nurtures agency and motivates the child in a way that is intrinsically. Learning becomes something that children are able to own, rather than something they are compelled to learn.
Community as a Learning Environment
Volo’s learning community is deliberately small in order to create a space that is a place where relationships are paramount. Students form deep bonds of friendship in a secure and trusting atmosphere. They also interact with students of various age groups. Students of different ages support each other, and younger students bring enthusiasm and excitement to shared experiences.
Experiential learning is crucial for the development of capabilities and character. Students might participate in conservation projects, creative construction or plan-making activities. These experiences help teach responsibility collaboration, and empathy while developing practical skills.
Contribution takes the place of competition. Children are taught that their ideas are worth something and that education is a goal that goes beyond academic results.
A Holistic View of Growth
The philosophy of education at Volo is connected to Holistic education, which recognizes that learning goes beyond just intellectual performance. The development of a child includes emotional health, physical interaction and social relationships.
Instead of trying to get test scores or rankings, Volo emphasizes long-term qualities such as adaptability, creativity and emotional intelligence. Students gain insight into themselves, their style of learning, and what they can do to make a meaningful contribution to the world.
It’s this type of environment that helps prepare the child for life in real time, not obsolete benchmarks. They are able to deal with challenges, navigate uncertainties and develop their thinking skills.
Reimagining the function of school
The Volo alternative school is an excellent illustration of how education could grow. The Volo alternative school demonstrates that education doesn’t need to be limited to rigid systems, classrooms or pressure. If children are encouraged and enthused learning is an integral and enjoyable aspect of daily life.
Volo is a smart solution for families in search of an education that celebrates both learning and childhood. It’s founded on connection, growth and meaningful experiences.