Choosing the Right
Group for You

Barefoot University Forest School Groups

Barefoot University offers a variety of group experiences, each designed to meet families where they are and grow community in unique ways.

Understanding these differences helps families choose the experience that best fits their needs.

Program
Description
Best fit for

Barefoot University

Community-based forest school groups following the full Barefoot University rhythm and structure.
Best fit for families seeking holistic, nature-rooted learning

BU Grace

Christian-rooted Barefoot University groups integrating faith with the BU rhythm and community experience.
Best fit for families wanting faith-centered outdoor education

BU WILD

Project based learning program for teens to build on skills they’re learning at forest school.
Best fit for families looking for a drop off program more academic in nature

BU Collective

Leader-organized groups using BU curriculum and resources with greater flexibility and independence.
Best fit for families wanting nonofficial BU groups to use our program
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Barefoot University

The Core BU Experience

BU groups are official BU groups and designed for kids k-12. BU groups are our original forest school model for 36 weeks of outdoor learning with a yearly focus.

  • Weekly gatherings are on public land
  • Groups are facilitated by BU trained leaders
  • Parents remained actively involved
  • Child led learning
  • Enrollment is open to the public
  • Group membership or individual (at home) membership available
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BU Grace

Barefoot University: Rooted in Grace

BU Grace groups are official BU groups designed for kids K-12. Grace groups follow our original forest school model for 36 weeks of outdoor learning with a yearly focus but with added Biblical content.

  • Weekly forest school gatherings on public land
  • Groups facilitated by BU trained leaders
  • Parents remained actively involve
  • Child led learning + Christian Worldview
  • Members and leaders sign a statement of faith
  • Enrollment is open to the public
  • Group membership or individual (at home) membership available
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BU WILD

Project based learning program for teens

BU Wild groups are designed for teenagers who want to deepen their forest school connections. Wild emphasizes experiential learning, allowing teens to explore academic concepts through direct interaction with their environment.

  • BU Wild groups run Sep-May (groups meet bi-monthly starting 8/15)
  • Structured environment of project based and academic learning
  • In-person labs and field studies will be combined with completing parts at home to meet learning outcomes
  • Field Guides are trained by BU
  • Drop off program

Barefoot University or Grace members receive 20% off of WILD memberships.

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BU Collective

Local Leader-Organized Groups

BU Collective groups are not official BU groups. This program is an opportunity for organizers to have private groups that are not under the oversight of BU, with families purchasing our curriculum.

  • Organizers set the group details
  • Families receive content and supplies
  • Groups are private and by invite only
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