The Cottage School is a vibrant, non-sectarian community of children, parents and teachers, which strives for active participation by all in the creation of an optimal learning environment. Individuals are valued as unique and are nurtured and encouraged in a supportive atmosphere of small multi-age groups. Meaningful learning experiences sustain a spirit of inquiry and a love of learning. The school is spread over three neighbouring cottages, providing a homelike environment which reflects the school's ethos of providing a safe, non-competitive learning environment. Children are respected as individuals with differing needs. Close teacher involvement accommodates different learning styles and rates of progress. Development of the whole child is encouraged. Excursions and outdoor activities are an important part of the total learning program. Excursions are planned to enable children to explore the natural environment and to visit museums, galleries and places of interest related to work undertaken in the classroom. Camps, held each term, provide many opportunities for direct learning experiences as well as strengthening friendships and promoting independence and responsibility. Children move to high school as confident, resilient young people who are independent learners.