Cedarwood Community and School
Located on Darlings Island, NB, Cedarwood Community and School is an alternative learning community for children ages 5–12. Our off-grid cabin is tucked away on a five-acre forest property. Cedarwood offers a nature based, self-directed learning experience - where childhood itself is the curriculum.
At Cedarwood, we believe it’s time to reclaim childhood. Learning is an unfolding journey guided by curiosity, play, and connection to the natural world. Our approach honours each child’s unique development and innate desire to learn. Inspired by the work of Peter Gray and self-directed education, we offer a supportive environment where learning emerges naturally through genuine play, exploration, and meaningful real-life experiences. With freedom, nurturing guidance, and consistent daily rhythms, children feel safe, seen, and empowered to grow at their own pace.
Our Philosophy:
Who we are
Cedarwood Community and School was founded by two teachers and mothers, Brigitte and Laura, who shared a vision in creating a meaningful and child-centered approach to education. Cedarwood encourages students to take ownership of their learning and cultivate a lifelong love of discovery. As a mixed-age school, children learn with and from one another - building cooperation, confidence, and real-world learning skills in a nurturing and supportive environment.
With a Bachelor's of Elementary Education and years of experience in the Early Years, Laura brings a deep understanding of how children learn best when they feel seen, heard, and supported.
Brigitte holds a Master’s in Teaching and has over a decade of experience in both public and private schools. After becoming a mother, she wanted to create something beyond the traditional model - an environment that honoured children’s natural curiosity and autonomy.
This vision led to the co-founding of Cedarwood, where we are passionate about supporting children as capable, self-directed learners.
Our mission is simple: to give childhood back to children and to nurture learning as nature intended.