Growing Wild Nature Co-op

Our Mission

Growing Wild’s primary mission is to connect homeschool children and families to an immersive nature experience. Our hands on learning approach allows children of varying ages to experience the beauty and joy of nature, while also learning valuable skills and lessons in ecology and conservation. Growing Wild is a secular inclusive co-op, welcoming families of differing values, beliefs, abilities and backgrounds.

We are currently at capacity and unable to accept new applications at this time.

What We Do

At Growing Wild, we believe that a connection to nature is essential for children's growth and development. Our primary mission is to provide an immersive nature experience for homeschool children and families through hands-on learning and exploration. Our programs are designed for school-aged children between the ages of 6-13. We also welcome siblings of different ages to participate and learn together.

We strive to foster a love of and respect for nature in our community, and we believe that this is best achieved through direct experience. Our programs are designed to engage children in a wide range of activities that allow them to explore and discover the natural world around them. From nature walks and hikes to gardening and animal tracking, we offer a diverse range of experiences that are both educational and fun.

A photograph of the president of the co-op A photograph of the president of the co-op A photograph of the president of the co-op

Our activities cover a wide range of topics related to nature and sustainability, and we are always looking for parent volunteers to share their knowledge as well. These activities are designed to develop practical skills and a deeper understanding of the natural world.

About Us

A photograph of the president of the co-op

As the founder and president of our co-op, Jessica Drew is a crucial member of our leadership team. She is a homeschooling mother to two young boys aged 9 and 6, and has been homeschooling them for the past five years. After finding remote schooling unsuitable for their family during the Covid-19 pandemic, Jessica discovered a passion for homeschooling that would soon become a permanent way of life for her family. Jessica's love for spending time outdoors with her family is evident in her leadership role at the co-op. She enjoys exploring the local woods, visiting nearby parks, and tending to her mini-farm with her children.

A photograph of the vice president of the co-op

Sheena Smith, our co-op's vice president, has been homeschooling for 2 years. She is the mother of two boys, aged 9 and 5, and loves being a part of the Oxford homeschool community and organizing Math learning opportunities. Sheena maintains our website and collaborates with Jessica to support our co-op's mission and activities.