Ocean School

Ocean School is an all-outdoors learning program based in San Diego, California. We offer seasonal afterschool programs and camps for children and surf lessons for all ages.

Our mission is to help children connect with their hearts, minds and bodies through the wonders of nature and outdoor play. We support kids' physical, mental and emotional health through nature, movement, mindfulness and breathing, storytelling, creative and expressive arts, collaborative activities, and free play.

Our camps and afterschool programs include ocean swims, surf lessons, tidepool explorations, coastal hikes, beach clean-ups and so much more. We provide the right set and setting for kids to become aware and connected to their own body, understand and regulate their emotions, communicate effectively, trust their instincts, take care of themselves, others and the earth.

Our child-centered approach to learning gives children the freedom and responsibility to take learning into their own hands. Class sizes are kept small so that each student is given individual attention, validation and appropriate curriculum for their interests, learning style and pace.

Our child-centered approach also gives children the space to find what truly lights them up and connects them to the ocean. Whether it's surfing, snorkeling, making ocean-inspired art, studying marine life, boogie boarding, or simply taking a mindful breath, there is something about the ocean that we all can appreciate and enjoy.

We cultivate not only love and curiosity, but also a desire to protect and take care of the ocean. We empower our students through awareness and knowing that each of us makes a difference through our day-to-day choices. Together we find fun and creative solutions such as upcycled art projects, trash-to-treasure hunts, and plastic-free challenges.

In all of our time and learning together at Ocean School, we ultimately hope that our students love, respect, and take care of themselves, each other, and the ocean... just a little bit more.